The Seen and the Unseen - hosted by Amit Varma

Ep 407: Sarbpreet Singh Finds His Sikhism

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Dec 23, 2024

Sarbpreet Singh, a historian and storyteller passionate about Sikh identity, shares his journey of rediscovery and cultural exploration. He discusses the deep emotional ties to significant historical places and reflects on childhood experiences in Sikkim that shaped his identity. Sarbpreet elaborates on the intersection of Sikhism and music, exploring how art can bridge generational gaps and cultural heritage. He also addresses the impact of the 1984 riots on collective trauma and the importance of storytelling in preserving Sikh history while advocating for social justice.

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ANECDOTE

Shrine Experiences

Sarbpreet Singh felt a sense of calm at Mian Mir's shrine in Lahore, a place connected to Guru Arjan.
Later, he felt an eerie connection to this shrine while visiting Inche Monastery in Gangtok, despite their differences.

ANECDOTE

Sikkim Childhood

Sarbpreet Singh's family moved to Sikkim as pioneers in construction, building early infrastructure.
As one of the few Sikh families, he experienced "othering", impacting his self-esteem.

ANECDOTE

Father's Sikhism

Sarbpreet Singh's father diligently practiced Sikhism, reading from Guru Granth Sahib daily.
This practice, however, wasn't actively shared with Sarbpreet, leading to his later detachment from the faith.

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One Hundred Years of Solitude

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One Hundred Years of Solitude tells the story of seven generations of the Buendía family, founders of the fictional town of Macondo. The novel spans a hundred years of turbulent Latin American history, from the postcolonial 1820s to the 1920s. It is a tale of love, loss, and the cyclical nature of history, filled with magical realism that blends the supernatural with the ordinary. The story follows the family's experiences, including civil war, marriages, births, and deaths, and explores themes such as solitude, fate, and the inevitability of repetition in history. The novel is renowned for its narrative style and its influence on the literary movement known as the Latin American Boom[1][4][5].

Eichmann in Jerusalem

A Report on the Banality of Evil

Hannah Arendt

Kultar's Mime

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Sarbpreet Singh

Sarpreet Singh's "Kultar's Mime" is a powerful and moving poem that recounts the experiences of Sikh children who survived the 1984 anti-Sikh riots in Delhi. The poem uses vivid imagery and emotional depth to convey the trauma and resilience of these children. It explores themes of loss, violence, and the enduring impact of collective trauma on individuals and communities. Singh's work is a testament to the human spirit's capacity to endure suffering and find hope amidst despair. The poem serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of remembering and learning from historical injustices.

Khyal: Creativity within North India's Classical Music Tradition

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Bonnie Wade's "Khyal: Creativity within North India's Classical Music Tradition" is a seminal work in the field of ethnomusicology. The book provides a detailed and insightful analysis of Khayal, a major form of Hindustani classical music. Wade's work explores the historical development, stylistic features, and performance practices of Khayal, drawing upon extensive fieldwork and archival research. She examines the role of creativity and improvisation in Khayal performance, highlighting the interplay between tradition and innovation. The book is a valuable resource for scholars and students of Indian classical music, offering a rich and nuanced understanding of this complex and vibrant musical tradition.

A History of the Sikhs

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J. D. Cunningham

J.D. Cunningham's "A History of the Sikhs" is a 19th-century account of the Sikh people and their history. Written during the British Raj, it offers a unique perspective, notable for its relatively sympathetic portrayal of the Sikhs, a departure from the prevailing colonial narratives. Cunningham's work provides valuable insights into Sikh society, culture, and military organization during a crucial period. His detailed descriptions of Sikh life and customs offer a glimpse into a world largely unknown to Western audiences at the time. The book's sympathetic tone, however, led to Cunningham's dismissal from the East India Company, highlighting the complexities of colonial power dynamics and the challenges of representing colonized cultures.

Em And The Big Hoom

Jerry Pinto

Jerry Pinto's "Em and the Big Hoom" is a poignant and insightful novel that explores the complex relationship between a mother and son. The novel delves into the mother's struggles with mental illness and its impact on the family dynamics. It offers a sensitive and nuanced portrayal of mental health issues, challenging societal stigmas and promoting understanding. Pinto's work is characterized by its emotional honesty and vivid storytelling, creating a compelling narrative that resonates with readers on a deeply personal level. The novel's exploration of family relationships and the challenges of navigating mental illness makes it a powerful and thought-provoking read.

A history of the Sikhs

Khushwant Singh

Khushwant Singh's "A History of the Sikhs" is a comprehensive and engaging account of Sikh history, culture, and religion. The book traces the evolution of Sikhism from its origins with Guru Nanak to the establishment of the Sikh Empire under Ranjit Singh. It examines key events, figures, and concepts within Sikhism, providing a rich narrative that blends historical accounts with personal reflections. Singh's work is notable for its accessibility and engaging storytelling style, making it suitable for both scholars and general readers interested in learning about Sikhism. The book also explores the impact of Sikhism on the broader cultural and political landscape of India and beyond.

Colron's Word in Victory, The Rise of the Sikhs

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Sarbpreet Singh

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The Story of the Sikhs

1469-1708

Sarbpreet Singh

Sarpreet Singh's "The Story of the Sikhs" offers a comprehensive exploration of Sikh history, culture, and faith. The book delves into the lives of the ten Sikh gurus, tracing the evolution of Sikhism from its origins to its present form. It examines key events, figures, and concepts within Sikhism, providing a rich narrative that blends historical accounts with personal reflections. Singh's work is notable for its accessibility and engaging storytelling style, making it suitable for both scholars and general readers interested in learning about Sikhism. The book also explores the impact of Sikhism on the broader cultural and political landscape of India and beyond.

The Sikh religion

Max Arthur Macauliffe

Max Arthur MacAuliffe's "The Sikh Religion" is a monumental work that provides a comprehensive overview of Sikhism. Written from a traditional Sikh perspective, it offers detailed insights into Sikh beliefs, practices, and history. MacAuliffe's work is characterized by its meticulous scholarship and extensive research, drawing upon a wide range of primary and secondary sources. The book's six volumes cover various aspects of Sikhism, including its origins, scriptures, rituals, and social structures. It remains a valuable resource for scholars and students of Sikhism, offering a detailed and authoritative account of this significant religious tradition.

Night of the Restless Spirits: Stories from 1984

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Sarbpreet Singh

Sarpreet Singh's "Night of the Restless Spirits" is a collection of short stories that explore the aftermath of the 1984 anti-Sikh riots in Delhi. The stories offer diverse perspectives on the events, highlighting the experiences of both Sikhs and non-Sikhs. They delve into the emotional and psychological impact of the violence, exploring themes of trauma, resilience, and the search for justice. Singh's work is characterized by its sensitivity and nuanced portrayal of human experiences in the face of adversity. The stories serve as a powerful reminder of the lasting consequences of collective violence and the importance of remembering the past.

The Camel Merchant of Philadelphia

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Sarbpreet Singh

Sarpreet Singh's "The Camel Merchant of Philadelphia" delves into the life and times of Ranjit Singh, the founder of the Sikh Empire. The book explores Singh's rise to power, his military campaigns, and his contributions to the cultural and political landscape of Punjab. It examines Singh's complex personality, highlighting his strengths and weaknesses as a leader. Singh's work is notable for its engaging storytelling and insightful analysis of a pivotal figure in Sikh history. The book also explores the broader historical context of Ranjit Singh's reign, providing a rich and nuanced understanding of this significant period.