This mixed-media collage is inspired by a letter possibly written in Urdu by an Indian soldier, Mohammad Gaki Khan (UP Muslim) to his compatriot, Sowar Mohammad Rafi Khan (possibly 30th Lancers, France). The letter dated 6^th June 1915, was possibly sent to France from India during the First World War. This letter along with other letters, is part of the book, ‘Indian Voices of the Great War: Soldiers’ Letters, 1914-18’ by David Omissi. In brief, the letter suggests various ways to make yourself ill, to avoid being sent to war. An extract from the letter reads, “Lalla Hajjan also told me a method of causing injury to the foot. First, make a cut in your foot with a knife, and then put a piece of copper in the wound”.

Mohammad Gaki Khan (UP Muslim) to Sowar Mohammad Rafi Khan (30th Lancers, France?) [Urdu?] 6th June 1915, was developed during Baptist Coelho’s year-long Artist-in-Residence, supported by and at Fondation Fiminco, Romainville, 2021-22. The residency was also supported by Fonds de Dotation Buchet Ponsoye, Paris; Institut Français, India. The artwork was first exhibited as part of the group exhibition at Fondation Fiminco, Romainville, from 2 June to 3 July 2022. The exhibition was curated by Yomna Osman.