The Kashmiri Giants were two extraordinarily tall men from Jammu and Kashmir, whose heights exceeded 7 feet. Let’s find out more about these remarkable individuals and their significant presence at the Delhi Durbar in 1903.
Height is something that often catches our attention, whether we’re in a crowd or meeting someone new. It’s one of those characteristics that stands out pretty quickly, like an instant impression we get when we see someone for the first time. Among the varying heights of people, exceptionally tall individuals are particularly captivating.
In 1903, two Indian men who were both taller than 7 feet captured everyone’s attention when an American photographer took pictures of them in a crowd of average-sized people. Their towering height stood out, making an instant impression. The sight of these men, known as the Kashmiri Giants, was nothing short of extraordinary.
These giants made their remarkable appearance during the grand event known as the Delhi Durbar, held in Delhi to celebrate the succession of King Edward VII as the Emperor of India. The Durbar, organized by Lord Curzon, the Viceroy of India, was a massive celebration intended to honor the new monarch.
Originally, King Edward VII was supposed to attend the coronation ceremonies in India, but he was reluctant to make the trip. Consequently, Lord Curzon devised the idea of the Delhi Durbar to celebrate the occasion in his absence. This grand spectacle was designed to honor the new Emperor and uplift the people of Delhi.
The coronation ceremony, which took nearly two years to plan, began on December 29, 1902, with a magnificent parade of elephants through the streets of Delhi. Many respected Indian kings and princes attended the ceremony, including the Duke of Connaught, who represented the British Royal Family.
The main event of the Delhi Durbar took place on January 1, 1903, on a spacious plain outside the city. This gathering aimed to highlight the splendor of the British Monarchy and the vast expanse of the British Empire. It also provided an opportunity to display rare and precious gems, seldom seen together in one location. The sight of these valuable jewels amazed the Indian princes and kings.
Lord Curzon himself participated in the festivities, riding alongside a group of Indian kings on elephants. However, the real showstopper was yet to come. Despite the decorated elephants with golden candelabras on their tusks, all eyes were on the two towering guards who stole the spotlight.
The two incredibly tall men, known as the Kashmiri Giants, accompanied the King of Jammu and Kashmir. Their presence was immediately striking, as they were the tallest people alive at that time. One of the giants stood at an impressive 7 feet 9 inches (2.36 meters), while the other was 7 feet 4 inches (2.23 meters). According to sources, they were twin brothers.
These Kashmiri Giants made quite an impression at the Durbar with their towering heads and broad shoulders. Not only were they exceptionally tall, but they were also skilled riflemen who served their King with dedication. They hailed from a place called Balmokand, although the name may have changed over time.
Armed with spears, maces, matchlocks, and even hand grenades, the brothers appeared ready for anything, fully committed to protecting their king. Each group at the event was led by an elephant, with the king’s bodyguards walking on either side. It was a grand display of strength and loyalty to the king.
Journalists and photographers from various countries who attended the Durbar were equally intrigued by the Kashmiri Giants. Their presence helped spread the fame of the King of Kashmir far and wide, making a significant impact on people all over the world.
In February 1903, an Australian newspaper called The Brisbane Courier published an article titled “The Retinue of the Ruler of Kashmir included a fine detachment of Cuirassiers and a huge Giant.” This article highlighted the remarkable Kashmiri Giants who served as guardsmen and servicemen for the ruler of Jammu & Kashmir.
An American traveler and photographer named James Ricalton was particularly fascinated by the Kashmiri Giants. He eagerly took pictures of them, and in these photos, Ricalton appeared much shorter, barely reaching the chest of the smaller giant. The contrast in height was quite a sight to behold.
The King of Kashmir aimed to display his power and strength at the Durbar, and he certainly succeeded. Even the British representatives were impressed by the majestic presence of the Indian King, further emphasizing the remarkable impact of the Kashmiri Giants.
