
The ਸੋਚ (Sōch) Podcast
Tune into the ਸੋਚ (Sōch) Podcast with Ramblings of a Sikh. Join us as we chat with professors, doctors, and academics in history and related fields, along with guests from music, art, entrepreneurship, and sports. Together, we’ll explore history, identity, and more. Dive into conversations that make you think and understand the world better.
Latest episodes

Sep 21, 2024 • 43min
Uncovering Indophilia | Dr. Somak Biswas
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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.

Sep 7, 2024 • 1h 4min
Why Did Germany Lose WWI? | Professor Holger Afflerbach
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00:00 - Introduction
00:17 - Who is Holger Afflerbach?
04:20 - Did Germany Fully Commit to Total War in WWI? Plus, Insights into the Fisher Controversy
08:36 - Uncertainty of WWI's Outcome: Identifying the Turning Point and Subsequent Progression
15:47 - What Really Ignited WWI: Beyond the Assassination, Unraveling the Origins of the Conflict
21:34 - Assessing the Significance and Ramifications of the Schlieffen Plan's Failure
25:02 - Spotlight on Key German Military Figures: Hindenburg and Ludendorff, Their Choices, and Their Influence on the War
30:43 - Scrutinising Germany's Internal Strife and Its Impact on the War
34:55 - Russia's Early Exit from WWI: Understanding the Dynamics Despite Germany Rejecting Russia's Peace Proposals
41:09 - Deciphering Germany's Socio-economic Landscape During the War and Its Impact on the War Effort49:30 - The Shadow of WWI on WWII: A Reflective Analysis
55:53 - The Main Reasons for Germany's Defeat in WWI
58:34 - Imagining a Dinner with a WWI Figure: Who Would Be the Guest?
01:00:45 - Revealing an Unexpected Discovery from Your Research
01:02:30 - Final Thoughts

Aug 24, 2024 • 49min
Resistance & Collaboration with Axis Powers | Dr Aviel Roshwald
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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 & Introduction
01:07: 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.

Aug 10, 2024 • 1h 26min
The Companys Sword | Professor Christina Welsch
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00:00 - Introduction
00:43 - Who is Christina Welsch?
02:37 - Exploring the Origins and Longevity of the East India Company's
Army
06:35 - 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 Khan
38:22 - How Did Other Colonial Powers Compare at This Time?
44:31 - The Impact of the "Rule of the Sword" on Everyday Life in India
50:22 - The Lingering Effects of East India Company Policies on Modern
India
53:53 - A Journey Through Time: Key Topics Covered in the Book
58:30 - Who From the Studied Period Would You Talk To, and What About?
01:01:29 - Unexpected Discoveries During the Research Process
01:05:57 - Did We Miss Anything? A Concluding Discussion

Jul 20, 2024 • 1h 6min
History of Bollywood, It's Global Impact & The Truth About Your Favourite Movie | Prof. Sunny Singh
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In this episode we're joined by Professor Sunny Singh who delves into the history of Bollywood, exploring its global impact and the truths behind beloved movies.
The discussion covers Singh’s personal journey, the evolution of Indian cinema, and its influence on global popular culture. Listeners will gain insights into how Bollywood shapes narratives and influences audiences worldwide.
The episode also offers a critical view of Bollywood films, challenging common perceptions and highlighting the rich, intricate storytelling traditions rooted in Indian aesthetics.
Tune in for an engaging and enlightening conversation about Bollywood’s vibrant culture and history.

Jul 13, 2024 • 48min
South Asian Canadian Women & The Ghadar Movement | Rishma Johal
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00:00 - Introduction
00:21 - Who is Rishma Johal, and how did you find yourself immersed in this field of study?
02:26 - What were the reasons behind South Asian women being excluded from Canada?
04:06 - When did the tide start to turn for South Asian women?
06:20 - Could you provide an overview of the Ghadar Party?
10:16 - If the Ghadar Party had been more organized, what could the potential ramifications have been?
12:15 - What is the process of becoming a Ghadar? Is it a title bestowed or self-proclaimed?
14:36 - The faces of resistance: from fighting against colonial arms to advocating for a national army.
17:03 - How does gender play a role within South Asian communities in Canada?
18:51 - The Zamindar System & the British: exploring its impact on gender relations, before and during colonial rule.
23:18 - What happened to the Ghadar movement in Canada once women were allowed to enter?
26:48 - The dichotomous lives of early settlers: living double lives and societal taboos.
29:02 - Delving into your research: what did the process involve, what locations did you explore, and which collections/archives did you use?
30:28 - Regarding your focus on women in Canada and their role in the Ghadar movement, what sources informed your research?
32:14 - What were the lives of these women like after their arrival in Canada?
34:36 - What were some of the obstacles you encountered during your research?
37:15 - How did the information you discovered differ when researching in Canada/US as compared to the UK?
38:11 - Did the British authorities keep tabs on any of these women?
38:41 - Could you elaborate on the intriguing figure of Madame Kam?
39:39 - Out of all the individuals you've studied, who would you choose to meet if you could travel back in time?
41:08 - Are figures like Gulab Kaur considered anomalies?
43:31 - Did the Ghadar Movement play a role in challenging gender norms?
46:34 - Is there anything else you would like to add or emphasize?

Jun 29, 2024 • 1h 19min
The Truth About the EIC's Indirect Rule | Callie Wilkinson
Historian Callie Wilkinson, an expert on the East India Company's strategies in India, reveals the cunning tactics behind Britain's indirect rule. The discussion explores how the Company employed violence and surveillance to maintain control, often justifying their actions through a distorted sense of humanity. Wilkinson sheds light on the paradox of British perceptions of Indian resistance, the intricate relationships with local powers, and the pervasive climate of fear shaped by mistrust. This deep dive into colonial dynamics uncovers the complex legacies of imperial governance.

Jun 18, 2024 • 1h 38min
Hardeep Matharu: Navigating Identity, Journalism, and Cultural Crossroads
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Join us for a riveting podcast episode featuring Hardeep Matharu, a journalist renowned for her insightful explorations into identity, culture, and the complex world of journalism.
Hardeep shares her unique journey from a multicultural upbringing in London to her distinguished career in the media, shedding light on the challenges and triumphs she has faced along the way.
Delve into Hardeep’s perspectives on navigating cultural crossroads, the significance of understanding one’s roots, and the pivotal role of journalism in today’s society.
Don’t forget to subscribe for more thought-provoking content and discussions that delve deep into the issues shaping our world today.

Jun 11, 2024 • 57min
The Truth About Empire: Real Histories of British Colonialism | Professor Alan Lester
Alan Lester, a Professor specializing in historical geography and British colonialism, sheds light on the complexities of British imperial history. He discusses how contemporary culture wars distort historical narratives. The impact of movements like Black Lives Matter on understanding colonialism is explored, advocating for inclusive education. Lester connects colonial legacies to Brexit and emphasizes the importance of diverse perspectives. The conversation also navigates the nostalgia for the British Empire, urging a nuanced approach to its contentious legacy.

Jun 4, 2024 • 1h
Jas Billan: Candid Talks, Culture Clashes, and THAT viral clip
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Join us on a captivating journey with Jas Billan, a social media sensation renowned for his candid street interviews and sharp humor that effortlessly bridges cultures and generations.
From his roots in Punjab to becoming a viral sensation, Jas has redefined online engagement through thought-provoking conversations and relatable content that resonates with a global audience.
In this exclusive interview, dive deep into Jas’s unique perspective on life, comedy, and the power of genuine interactions. Discover the man behind the laughs, his take on modern dating, cultural identity, and how he turns everyday encounters into viral sensations.
Don’t miss out on this blend of humor, wisdom, and unexpected moments that only Jas can deliver.