What if the Sikh Empire wasn’t born on the battlefield, but in the library? 📚In this teaser for our Road to Empire podcast with author Satnam Singh, we explore the intellectual and political foundations of the Khalsa before the rise of Maharaja Ranjit Singh. From the Anandpur court of Guru Gobind Singh to the literature of the Mughal and Sanskrit worlds, this conversation reveals how stories, ideas, and philosophies shaped Sikh ideas of sovereignty.We discuss how the Khalsa balanced rahit (discipline) and rajniti (politics), how translations from Persian and Sanskrit influenced Sikh thought, and why the Sikhs were fighting not just battles — but for an idea of Raj that empires could never destroy.🎙️ This is just a teaser for our upcoming live podcast in Birmingham on 3rd November with:Satnam Singh (The Road to Empire)Harleen Singh (The Lost Heer)Early bird tickets are already 60% sold — don’t miss your chance to be in the room for these landmark conversations.🎟️ Get your tickets here:👉 Eventbrite Link
Join us for a fascinating conversation with Professor Brian Villmoare, Associate Professor of Anthropology at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, as we explore the grand narrative of the universe.Drawing from his book The Evolution of Everything: The Patterns and Causes of Big History, Professor Villmoare examines the interconnectedness of the cosmos, life, and human societies. This episode challenges the traditional view that history is shaped solely by great figures or singular ideas, instead highlighting the gradual transformations in technology, culture, and society that have woven the fabric of our existence.Discover how the evolution of the universe — from the Big Bang to the rise of human civilisation — has followed patterns that reveal the hidden forces shaping our world. If you are intrigued by the mysteries of the cosmos, life, and the story of humanity, this is a must-watch.
Join Sathnam Sanghera on a transformative journey to uncover the hidden truths of British imperialism — a controversial legacy that continues to shape global dynamics and modern society. Inspired by his acclaimed book EmpireWorld, Sanghera confronts the far-reaching consequences of imperialism, emphasizing the critical role of historical accountability, decolonization, and cross-cultural perspectives.In this powerful exploration, Sanghera delves into the darker aspects of the British Empire’s history, exposing its enduring impact on social justice, cultural identity, and ethnic narratives. Through a lens of decolonial thought and historical awareness, he offers a nuanced perspective on the empire’s influence on contemporary issues, including race relations, colonial legacies, and the ongoing fight for equity and justice.This thought-provoking video challenges viewers to rethink their understanding of imperialism, shedding light on often-overlooked stories and fostering crucial conversations about the importance of confronting the past to build a more equitable future. With unflinching honesty, Sanghera highlights the lasting impacts of colonialism, sparking insights into how we can embrace a more inclusive and accurate understanding of history.
Discover the untold story of Indian soldiers during the Gallipoli Campaign of World War I in this fascinating discussion with Professor Peter Stanley, one of Australia’s leading military historians.This video explores the sacrifices, challenges, and hidden histories of over 16,000 Indian soldiers who served in one of the most brutal battles of WWI.Learn about their role in the first major amphibious operation of modern warfare—and how their contributions, often overlooked, helped shape the course of history.Dive deep into this riveting topic, brought to you by Ramblings of a Sikh, and gain a unique perspective on this historic event.Subscribe for more insights into military history, cultural heritage, and hidden narratives.
★ Join the Ramblings of a Sikh YouTube Channel ★ ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★ ★ Buy this podcast a coffee ★Join us for an exclusive interview with G.S. Nawepindiya, where he shares insights into his vibrant Punjabi music career and the rich heritage of Sikh culture.In this conversation, he reveals the creative process behind his latest album and offers his thoughts on the evolution of Punjabi music. With captivating discussions about Sikh history, his personal experiences, and the cultural influence of his music, this video is a must-watch for Punjabi music lovers, history enthusiasts, and fans of G.S. Nawepindiya.
Sam Dalrymple joins me for a powerful conversation about his book Shattered Lands: Five Partitions and the Making of Modern Asia, where he unpacks how India went through multiple partitions, not just the 1947 split.We explore the Partition of Bengal, the Partition of Punjab, the role of the Muslim League, and the mass migrations that followed. From the politics of Jinnah, Nehru, Gandhi, and Mountbatten to the creation of Pakistan and the eventual liberation of Bangladesh, this episode dives deep into the people, borders, and decisions that shaped the subcontinent and so much more.Sam argues that 1947 was just one moment in a much longer story of borders being drawn, redrawn, and broken apart.Each event, from the partition of Burma to other lesser known divisions, has left lasting scars. We discuss the historical context and consequences of these partitions, including the 1937 separation of Burma, the forgotten detachment of the Gulf states and Yemen, and how princely state politics quietly shaped much of today’s India Pakistan border.We also dive into the creation of Bangladesh in 1971, which Sam calls the real moment the modern map of South Asia was made.What makes this episode special is how personal and human the history feels. Sam shares stories from Project Dastaan, the emotional process of reconnecting families across divided lands, and how even nationalist narratives often unravel when you ask someone about their childhood best friend from “the other side.”This is history through memory, migration, and moments that still shape the region today.Watch the full conversation and let me know in the comments: Which partition do you think left the deepest mark?🛒 Pick up a copy of Shattered Lands from my bookshop:👉 ramblingsofasikh.co.uk
🎙️ How Much Museum Art Was Legally Acquired? 🤔Join us for an eye-opening conversation with Prof. Erin Thompson — the world’s first professor of Art Crime at John Jay College (CUNY).We explore:– How museums acquire and label stolen artifacts– The secret world of forgery, smuggling & sacred object theft– Museum cover-ups and colonial legacies– The ethics of repatriation and controversial monuments💬 Prof. Thompson (@artcrimeprof) is a leading voice in museum ethics and cultural heritage protection. She’s worked on major repatriation cases and helped expose how looted objects make their way into museum collections.📚 Her book Smashing Statues: The Rise and Fall of America’s Public Monuments dives into the politics of monuments and the fight over their removal.🔔 Subscribe for more deep dives into history, art, and heritage theft.
In this powerful episode, we sit down with actor, writer, and advocate Jassa Ahluwalia to dive deep into the experiences that shaped his new book, Both, Not Half. From growing up mixed-race in Leicester to challenging the entertainment industry’s narrow perceptions, Jassa shares how he turned cultural complexity into a strength. 🌍✨
🔍 Exploring Liverpool’s Complex Racial HistoryDive into the heart of Liverpool’s historical and contemporary race relations with our in-depth discussion featuring Emeritus Professor John Belchem from the University of Liverpool.📖 Drawing from his extensive research and his book Before the Windrush, Professor Belchem uncovers the racial dynamics of early 20th-century Liverpool, offering a compelling analysis of the city’s cosmopolitan past and evolving challenges of racism.🌍 What You’ll Learn:✔️ The role of Liverpool in the transatlantic slave trade✔️ The formation of one of the UK’s oldest Black communities✔️ How historical legacies shape modern race relations✔️ Liverpool’s ambivalent embrace of diversity over timeFrom colonial influences to present-day multiculturalism, this video sheds light on the untold stories and critical moments that continue to shape the city’s identity.🎥 Join us on this thought-provoking journey through Liverpool’s past to better understand its impact on race relations today.
🎙️ A Deep Dive into the Indian Army’s WWII Training with Dr. Alan JeffreysIn this enlightening discussion, we sit down with Dr. Alan Jeffreys, Head of Collections at the Imperial War Museum and author of Approach to Battle: Training the Indian Army During the Second World War, to explore the crucial yet often overlooked aspect of training the Indian Army during World War II.Dr. Jeffreys delves into the methods, training manuals, and doctrines that shaped the Indian Army, highlighting its significant role in global warfare, particularly in Southeast Asia.With nearly 30 years of expertise studying the Indian Army, he sheds light on its pivotal contributions in campaigns like Malaya and Burma, often underrepresented in historical narratives. This conversation uncovers how training evolved and the lasting impact it had during and after WWII.🔍 If you’re passionate about WWII history, military strategies, or the Indian Army’s role in the global conflict, this video offers a unique perspective!
★ Join the Ramblings of a Sikh YouTube Channel ★ ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★ ★ Buy this podcast a coffee ★Discover the legendary life of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, the iconic Sikh warrior and king, in this insightful video featuring co-curator Davinder Singh Toor.🎥 Take a journey through the exclusive exhibition at the Wallace Collection, highlighting: The life and legacy of the Lion of Punjab Opulent treasures of the Sikh Empire Stories of valour and leadershipDive into the rich history of the Sikh Empire, exploring its epic battles, strategic military brilliance, and the intricate craftsmanship of its artifacts. This exhibition celebrates Ranjit Singh’s enduring contributions to Sikh heritage and leadership.
★ Join the Ramblings of a Sikh YouTube Channel ★ ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★ ★ Buy this podcast a coffee ★Dive into the mesmerizing world of @magicsingh, the magician who has taken the globe by storm with his captivating blend of traditional and modern magic.In this exclusive interview, we peel back the layers of intrigue surrounding Magic Singh's most iconic tricks, uncover the challenges he faces in the limelight, and reveal the unforgettable moments that have defined his illustrious career.With over 2 million followers on TikTok and a global fanbase, Magic Singh's journey from a magic-obsessed child to a world-renowned illusionist is nothing short of spellbinding. Watch as he shares his inspirations, the evolution of his craft, and performs two mind-blowing tricks that will leave you in awe.Don't miss the chance to get up close and personal with the man behind the magic – Magic Singh.Subscribe and hit the bell icon to catch the latest magic revelations and performances that continue to enchant audiences worldwide.
★ Join the Ramblings of a Sikh YouTube Channel ★ ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★ ★ Buy this podcast a coffee ★In this episode, we are honored to be joined by Jvala Singh, a lecturer at UC Berkeley, creator of The Suraj Podcast, author of “54 Punjabi Proverbs,” and PhD holder. Together, we delve into the Sri Sarbloh Granth.We begin with an overview of the Sri Sarbloh Granth, discussing its origins, languages, and chapters. We explore the historical context and debates surrounding its authorship, examining arguments for and against attributing it to Guru Gobind Singh Ji, and consider other possible authors. We also explore differences among manuscripts and connections to the Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji and Dasam Granth.Additionally, we discuss the Sarbloh Granth’s influence on Sikh practices and beliefs, and its role in shaping the Sikh community.Join us for a deep dive into the Sri Sarbloh Granth, revealing its significance and impact on Sikh literature and culture in an enlightening and thought-provoking conversation.
★ Join the Ramblings of a Sikh YouTube Channel ★ ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★ ★ Buy this podcast a coffee ★Explore the Untold Stories of Sikh Women Who Survived the 1984 GenocideIn this exclusive interview with Sanam Sutirath Wazir, we delve into the harrowing experiences of Sikh women during the 1984 Sikh genocide in India. This insightful conversation explores the devastating impact of Operation Bluestar and the anti-Sikh violence, revealing the trauma and resilience of women who lived through it.Hear firsthand accounts that highlight the often overlooked voices of Sikh women and the generational effects of this conflict on families. This powerful video uncovers the erasure of women’s stories in history and their strength in the face of unimaginable hardship.A must-watch for those interested in Sikh history, the 1984 genocide, women's survival stories, and human rights violations.
★ Join the Ramblings of a Sikh YouTube Channel ★ ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★ ★ Buy this podcast a coffee ★In this episode, we are joined by Stacy Stukin, a Los Angeles-based journalist, and Philip Deslippe, a PhD candidate in the Department of Religious Studies at the University of California, Santa Barbara. They discuss their comprehensive investigative work on the abuse within the 3HO organization and its associated boarding schools. The conversation addresses various forms of abuse, including physical, emotional, and sexual abuse, offering a deep dive into the troubling practices within 3HO’s boarding schools. Stukin and Deslippe share insights from their years of research, highlighting the rigorous process of evidence collection and analysis. This episode sheds light on the dark aspects of 3HO, providing listeners with a critical understanding of the organization’s history and the impact on its members.
★ Join the Ramblings of a Sikh YouTube Channel ★ ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★ ★ Buy this podcast a coffee ★In this episode we're joined by Professor Benjamin Siegel from Boston University discusses the evolution of Indian agriculture and food security. The conversation spans significant historical events such as the Bengal Famine of 1943 and the Green Revolution, shedding light on their profound impacts on India’s social and political landscape. Professor Siegel delves into the intricacies of food policy, land reforms, and the ongoing challenges posed by climate change. This episode offers a deep dive into the critical issues shaping India’s agricultural history and their global implications, providing listeners with valuable insights into the complexities of food security and policy.
★ Join the Ramblings of a Sikh YouTube Channel ★ ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★ ★ Buy this podcast a coffee ★In this episode we're joined by Dr. Somak Biswas, a postdoctoral fellow at the University of Cambridge and author of “Passages Through India,” who delves into the concept of Indophilia. The discussion covers the distinctions between Indophilia and Orientalism, the Western fascination with Indian spirituality, and how these cultural interactions have shaped Indo-Western dynamics. Dr. Biswas shares insights from his research on history, migration, and spirituality, revealing surprising discoveries and deep discipleship. This episode offers a fascinating exploration of cultural connections and the secularization of spiritual relationships. Tune in for an enlightening conversation about the historical and cultural ties between India and the West.
★ Join the Ramblings of a Sikh YouTube Channel ★ ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★ ★ Buy this podcast a coffee ★00:00 - Introduction00:17 - Who is Holger Afflerbach?04:20 - Did Germany Fully Commit to Total War i00:00 – Introduction00:17 – Who is Holger Afflerbach?04:20 – Did Germany Fully Commit to Total War in WWI? Insights into the Fischer Controversy08:36 – Uncertainty of WWI’s Outcome: Identifying the Turning Point15:47 – What Really Ignited WWI: Beyond the Assassination21:34 – The Schlieffen Plan’s Failure: Significance and Consequences25:02 – German Military Figures: Hindenburg and Ludendorff30:43 – Internal Strife in Germany and Its Effect on the War34:55 – Russia’s Early Exit: Why Germany Rejected Peace Proposals41:09 – Germany’s Socio-economic Landscape and the War Effort49:30 – The Shadow of WWI on WWII: A Reflective Analysis55:53 – The Main Reasons for Germany’s Defeat in WWI58:34 – If You Could Have Dinner with a WWI Figure, Who Would It Be?01:00:45 – An Unexpected Discovery from Holger’s Research01:02:30 – Final Thoughts
★ Join the Ramblings of a Sikh YouTube Channel ★ ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★ ★ Buy this podcast a coffee ★Join us in an insightful discussion with Dr. Aviel Roshwald, the esteemed author of 'Occupied: European & Asian Responses to Axis Occupation'. Navigate the intricacies of Axis Occupation during World War II, understand its profound impact on identities across continents, and unveil the strategic choices made by the occupied. With rich case studies and unparalleled research, this conversation promises to shed new light on the nuanced dynamics of resistance, collaboration, and historical understanding. Delve deep into the legacy of WW2 with expert insights. Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more scholarly dialogues and historical revelations.00:00: Welcome & Introduction01:07: Discovering the inspiration behind 'Europe & Asian Responses to Axis Occupation.'04:22: The transformation of identities under Axis Occupation: What changed in Europe & Asia?06:08: Dive into the selection of case studies: Any fascinating stories untold?09:44: Asia’s identity-driven choices: Resistance or collaboration under Axis rule?15:04: Weighing decisions during occupation: Was it coercion, opportunism, or a calculated move?21:15: Vivid snapshots: Examples of Axis occupation landscapes across continents.32:12: The long-lasting reverberations of Axis Occupation.35:56: Behind-the-scenes: The trials and tribulations of comprehensive research.40:21: How does 'Occupied' redefine our understanding of WW2 scholarship?42:58: A dream encounter: Which WW2 figure would you dine with?47:42: Wrapping up: Final thoughts & reflections.
★ Join the Ramblings of a Sikh YouTube Channel ★ ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★ ★ Buy this podcast a coffee ★00:00 - Introduction00:43 - Who is Christina Welsch? 02:37 - Exploring the Origins and Longevity of the East India Company's Army06:35 - Examples of Ruling by the Sword?12:38 - How did the East India Company's Army Avoid Being Absorbed by the British Army, and What Ultimately Caused Its Absorption?21:15 - The Origins and Applications of the Phrase "Ruling by the Sword"25:54 - Research Insights: What Do Colonial and Persian Records Reveal, and How Do They Compare?31:36 - Sepoy Mohammad Yusuf Khan38:22 - How Did Other Colonial Powers Compare at This Time?44:31 - The Impact of the "Rule of the Sword" on Everyday Life in India50:22 - The Lingering Effects of East India Company Policies on Modern India53:53 - A Journey Through Time: Key Topics Covered in the Book58:30 - Who From the Studied Period Would You Talk To, and What About?01:01:29 - Unexpected Discoveries During the Research Process01:05:57 - Did We Miss Anything? A Concluding Discussion
Pavandip Singh Dhillon
Rattan Singh Bhangoo also has a mention of the goats being slaughtered at Nander by Guru jee at Madho Das asthaan