

The Story Isn’t Over: History from the Margins
Ramblings of a Sikh
The Story Isn’t Over: History from the Margins is a podcast from Amar Singh, aka Ramblings of a Sikh. Historians, artists, journalists, activists and culture-makers join wide ranging conversations that unearth forgotten histories, expose modern scandals and rethink the stories we thought we knew.
We spotlight empire, resistance, migration, pop culture, faith, music, community memory and more, tracking how power, memory and diaspora shape identity today. Rooted in research, lived experience, and sharp curiosity.
The story isn’t over.
We spotlight empire, resistance, migration, pop culture, faith, music, community memory and more, tracking how power, memory and diaspora shape identity today. Rooted in research, lived experience, and sharp curiosity.
The story isn’t over.
Episodes
Mentioned books

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
★ Join the Ramblings of a Sikh YouTube Channel ★ ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★ ★ Buy this podcast a coffee ★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
★ Join the Ramblings of a Sikh YouTube Channel ★ ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★ ★ Buy this podcast a coffee ★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.

May 17, 2024 • 1h 1min
The Beatles to Paddington How The West Indian Generation Reshaped British Culture | Amanda Bidnall
★ Join the Ramblings of a Sikh YouTube Channel ★ ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★ ★ Buy this podcast a coffee ★Embark on a riveting journey into the heart of London’s cultural transformation with Amanda Bidnall, author of ‘The West Indian Generation: Remaking British Culture in London, 1945-1965’. Delve into the post-WWII era, a time when London experienced an influx of West Indian artists and the profound influence they imparted on British culture. With a spotlight on iconic figures like Lord Kitchener, Lord Beginner, and many others, this conversation illuminates the artists’ journey from colonial subjects to British citizens and their artistic endeavors that reshaped cultural identities. A must-listen for those captivated by the end of the British Empire, migration from New Commonwealth countries, and the emergence of Black British culture. Remember to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more enlightening discussions.00:00: Introduction: Setting the Stage01:28: Delving into the Roots: Was the Immigration Act a Response to WWII or Labour Shortages?03:59: The Nationalities Act: Its Intriguing Influence on Calypso Music06:18: Spotlight on Lord Kitchener & Psy Grant: Their Legacy and Influence09:19: Unveiling the Research Process: Discovering Hidden Treasures12:28: Calypso Artists: Bonded by Shared Struggles or the Essence of the Art?17:23: Echoes of Concerns: Issues Highlighted in Their Music22:41: The Calypso Phenomenon: Its Ripple Effect on British Culture34:57: Overcoming Hurdles: Artists’ Transition from Colonial Subjects to Recognized Citizens41:02: Unearthed Revelations: The Most Astonishing Finds from the Research53:44: Time Travel: Who Would Amanda Dine With from Her Research Subjects?57:08: Closing Thoughts: Reflecting on the Journey

Apr 11, 2024 • 1h 14min
Comedy, Identity, and the Aunty Years | Sukh Ojla
★ Join the Ramblings of a Sikh YouTube Channel ★ ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★ ★ Buy this podcast a coffee ★Dive into a captivating podcast episode where we welcome our special guest Sukh Ojla, known for her engaging humor and insightful reflections on South Asian culture, identity, and the intriguing world of comedy. She takes us on a journey from her early days filled with vibrant cultural experiences to her rise as a celebrated comedian, navigating the complex interplay of tradition and modernity along the way. Explore the nuances of growing up in a Panjabi/Sikh household, the evolution of cultural norms, and the transformative power of comedy in bridging generational gaps and challenging societal expectations. This episode offers a rare glimpse into the creative process behind developing relatable comedic content, the significance of representation in the entertainment industry, and the profound impact of humor in fostering understanding and connection across diverse communities. Join us as we delve into the art of storytelling through comedy, the importance of staying true to one's roots, and the role of humour in illuminating the human experience. Whether you're a fan of comedy, interested in cultural narratives, or simply in search of a heartfelt and hilarious conversation, this episode promises to entertain, enlighten, and inspire.

Apr 11, 2024 • 49min
No Entry Into White Settler Colonies | Professor David Atkinson
★ Join the Ramblings of a Sikh YouTube Channel ★ ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★ ★ Buy this podcast a coffee ★🌍 Explore the Complex History of Immigration Restrictions with Professor David Atkinson! 🌍Join us in this enlightening journey through history as we delve into the intricate world of immigration policies in white settler colonies from the late 19th to the mid-20th century. Professor David Atkinson from Purdue University, an expert in the field, sheds light on the evolution, impact, and legacy of these policies.What You'll Discover in This Video:📜 The Origins of Immigration Restrictions: A comprehensive overview of how and why these policies emerged. 🌏 Impact on Global Relations: Understanding the effects of these policies on international dynamics and migrant identities.🤔 The Role of Racial and Gender Stereotypes: An analysis of how these stereotypes influenced immigration laws.✊ Resistance and Change: Insights into the resistance movements and how they contributed to policy changes.🌐 Contemporary Relevance: Discussing the lasting effects of historical laws on today's immigration policies.

Mar 8, 2024 • 52min
Former CSIS Spy Whistleblows on Diversity, Counterterrorism, and National Security | Huda Mukbil
★ Join the Ramblings of a Sikh YouTube Channel ★ ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★ ★ Buy this podcast a coffee ★Huda Mukbil, a former intelligence officer with the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS), discusses her experiences and insights into the world of national security and diversity. She shares her journey of joining CSIS, her experience before and after the events of 9/11, the shift in focus from counter-espionage to counter-terrorism, and the impact of global events on intelligence work. Mukbil also addresses the challenges of racism and discrimination within the organization and the importance of diversity in national security. She highlights the need for change and the legacy she hopes to leave behind.Huda's unique perspective sheds light on the ethical quandaries and the personal toll of life in the shadows. Dive deep into the world of intelligence with stories of courage, conflict, and the quest for integrity.

Mar 8, 2024 • 1h 3min
Inside the Post Office Scandal | Onkar Sandhu
★ Join the Ramblings of a Sikh YouTube Channel ★ ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★ ★ Buy this podcast a coffee ★Uncover the truth behind the Post Office Scandal, one of the UK's most significant miscarriages of justice, in this detailed podcast.We explore the Horizon computer system, which lay at the heart of the Post Office Scandal and wrongfully accused hundreds of Subpostmasters of financial crimes, leading to devastating personal and professional consequences.Join us as we engage in a conversation with Onkar Sandhu, a Subpostmaster who was embroiled in the Post Office Scandal, as we illuminate the story of how he was impacted and delve into the wider ongoing struggle for justice and compensation against daunting challenges.Featuring: Expert analysis on the Horizon system's flaws Interviews with wrongfully accused Subpostmasters Insights into the legal and public response to the Post Office ScandalWhat You'll Discover: The origins and implications of the Horizon system errors Personal accounts from those who lived through the ordeal The legal milestones leading to the overturning of convictionsDon't miss this compelling podcast that sheds light on a pivotal moment in British legal history. Subscribe and hit the bell to stay updated on our latest releases.

Mar 6, 2024 • 1h 8min
How Did This Conference Shape India's Fight for Independence? | Professor Stephen Legg
★ Join the Ramblings of a Sikh YouTube Channel ★ ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★ ★ Buy this podcast a coffee ★01:01 - Who is Stephen Legg?03:35 - What are the Round Tables Conferences?07:18 - Interesting facts, assumptions, and breakthroughs from your research on the Round Table Conferences?12:20 - How did the conference move from a wide range of ideas to the final results it achieved?16:31 - Besides Gandhi, who were some of the other delegates invited to the conference? Were there any surprising attendees?21:47 - Could you talk about the representation of Sikh delegates at the Round Table Conference?25:38 - What do you think might have happened if Ujjal Singh hadn't expressed disagreement?30:29 - What was Ujjal Singh's reception like when he returned to India after the conference?33:53 - How were the Indian delegates, or "brown faces", treated by locals when they arrived in London?42:33 - In what ways did the Indian delegates challenge Western stereotypes at the conference?48:50 - Is there an aspect of the Round Table Conference that you believe is overlooked or underappreciated?56:16 - If you could have dinner with any delegate from the conference, who would it be and why?01:00:35 - During your research, did you stumble upon any interesting or entertaining anecdotes related to the conference?