

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

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?

Dec 17, 2023 • 1h 12min
The Indian Army at Hampton Court Palace | Tej Pal Singh Ralmill & Rav Singh
★ Join the Ramblings of a Sikh YouTube Channel ★ ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★ ★ Buy this podcast a coffee ★Embark on a historical voyage with our latest video, 'The Indian Army at Hampton Court Palace.' This enthralling documentary invites you to traverse time, uncovering the significant role and contributions of the Indian Army at Hampton Court Palace, a jewel in England's royal heritage.In this episode, we delve deeper into the 'Indian Army at the Palace' exhibition, guided by the insights of Rav Singh and Tejpal Singh from ALittleHistoryofTheSikhs. As Community Curators and key organizers of the exhibition, they offer unique perspectives and rich narratives that bring these historical tales to life.Join us as we explore the exhibition's captivating stories, artifacts, and the legacy of the Indian Army at Hampton Court. Rav and Tejpal's expertise not only enriches our understanding but also serves as an invitation to experience the exhibition firsthand, open until at least September, 2024. Their engaging discussion promises to ignite your curiosity and inspire a visit to this remarkable showcase of history.00:00 - Introduction01:20 - Why is Hampton Court Palace a Pivotal Location in the Indian Army's History?13:00 - Discover the Daily Life: What Were the Living Conditions of Indian Soldiers Like?15:33 - Cultural Exchange or Conflict? Understanding Soldier-Local Interactions at Hampton Court Palace19:00 - The Socio-Political Influence: How Did Events Like Jallianwala Bagh and the Influenza Pandemic Shape the Soldiers' Experience?23:20 - Impact and Influence: How Did the Indian Soldiers' Stays at Hampton Court Shape British-Indian Relations?33:22 - Personal Connections: Which Items from the Exhibition Resonate Most With You?38:15 - If You Could Keep One Artifact from the Exhibition, What Would It Be and Why?40:15 - Exploring Royal Ties: What Was the Nature of the Soldiers' Interactions with Sophia Duleep Singh?42:33 - Reclaiming Heritage: How Does the Exhibition Portray the Role of Punjab's Princess?48:15 - From Vision to Reality: How Was the 'Indian Army at the Palace' Exhibition Conceptualized and Executed?53:17 - Bringing History to Life: How is the Indian Army Exhibition at Hampton Court Palace Being Presented?01:02:00 - Challenging Narratives: How Does the Exhibition Alter or Confirm Historical Views of the Indian Army in Early 20th Century England?01:07:45 - Spotlight on Sikh History: Are There Specific Sikh Stories Highlighted in the Exhibition?01:11:09 - Conclusion

Dec 6, 2023 • 48min
How Black & Brown Communities Shaped the UK | Preeti Dhillon
★ Join the Ramblings of a Sikh YouTube Channel ★ ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★ ★ Buy this podcast a coffee ★Embark on a journey with us through Britain's lesser-known history, spotlighting the transformative movements spearheaded by black and brown activists. Dive into the tales of the IWA, Bristol Bus Boycott, BlackPower, Mangrove Nine, Fasimbas, Oval Four, Black Liberation Front, BlackEducation Movement, Brixton Black Women's Group, OWAAD, BrunswickStrike, Battle of Brick Lane, Asian Youth Movements, and the Bradford 12. These narratives have been instrumental in molding the UK'ssocio-political fabric. Gain insights from Preeti Dhillon, the esteemed researcher, writer, andhistorian behind "The Shoulders We Stand On." Unearth how theseoften-overlooked movements were pivotal in confronting racism andcapitalism in the UK from the 60s to the 80s and changing the veryfabric of the country.In the spirit of Angela Davis's words, our video seeks to highlight notjust remarkable individuals but the collective endeavors that broughtabout change. Let's honor the unsung heroes and movements that have been right here, awaiting their rightful recognition.

Nov 18, 2023 • 1h 4min
Invisible Chains: The History of State Sanctioned Human Trafficking | Cindy Hahamovitch
★ Join the Ramblings of a Sikh YouTube Channel ★ ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★ ★ Buy this podcast a coffee ★00:00 - Introduction01:28 - What are guestworker programs?02:27 - What are the origins of guestworker programs?07:26 - How do guestworker programs differ from indentured labour and slavery?09:42 - What influences the development of the guestworker programs?14:04 - Why doesn't the government seem to take significant actions?17:58 - What other elements contribute to the exploitation within guestworker programs?22:54 - What was the role of guestworker programs in Jim Crow America?29:59 - Is it common for cases to go to court?31:35 - How have you gone about your research?34:30 - What are some of the benefits of guestworker programs?37:29 - How has anti-immigrant sentiment affected the expansion of guestworker programs over time?42:44 - What are some potential solutions to problems created by guestworker programs?47:23 - What is the current status of guestworker programs?51:12 - Guestworker programs increasing under Trump?56:36 - Are there any similarities between guestworker programs and the war on drugs?01:00:37 - Who is Cindy Hahamovitch?

Oct 21, 2023 • 1h 37min
Sikh Soldiers in WWI: Loyalty, Sacrifice & Identity | Asst. Professor John Soboslai
★ Join the Ramblings of a Sikh YouTube Channel ★ ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★ ★ Buy this podcast a coffee ★00:00 - Introduction01:04 - Who is John Soboslai?11:49 - Contrasts between Judeo-Christian martyrdom and non-Abrahamic martyrdom?16:22 - How is martyrdom reconceived or repurposed by those holding authority?34:12 - What impact do events like Komagatu Maru, World War I, and Jallianwala Bagh have on loyalist camps?37:45 - What are the similarities and differences in manifestations of religious martyrdom?44:14 - The motivations behind martyrdom?52:02 - How did the British Indian Army manipulate the concept of 'Shaheedi'?01:01:14 - How has the concept of martyrdom evolved within Sikh tradition?01:04:38 - A Sikh homeland in East Africa?01:13:50 - What are some intriguing discoveries that you have made during your research?01:22:29 - If you could meet any individual from the history you've studied, who would it be?01:24:18 - Can you share any particularly interesting or unusual sources you encountered during your research?01:28:26 - Is the notion of 'divinity' essential for the existence of 'martyrdom'?01:31:35 - If given the chance, what would you ask the soldiers you've studied about?01:34:33 - Could you share some details about your book and any future projects you are working on?

Oct 16, 2023 • 51min
Idi Amin & The Ugandan Asian Exodus | Lucy Fulford
★ Join the Ramblings of a Sikh YouTube Channel ★ ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★ ★ Buy this podcast a coffee ★Discover the untold stories of the Ugandan Asian Expulsion with Lucy Fulford, author of 'The Exiled Empire: Immigration and the Uganda Asian Exodus'. Dive deep into the historical ties between South Asians and East Africa, from the early trade relations to the challenges faced in post-colonial Uganda. Understand the profound impact of these events on global diaspora communities in the UK and Canada. Join us on this enlightening journey as we unveil hidden histories. Don't forget to subscribe for more insightful content! 00:00 - Sneak Peek: What's Unveiled in Today's Discussion?01:20 - India & East Africa Connection: A Brief Overview of their shared history03:34 - Personal Touch in 'The Exiled': How did your family's experiences shape your narrative on the Ugandan Asian exodus?05:14 - Turbulent Times: What was the backdrop just before the massive expulsion?09:41 - Decade of Change: What pivotal events transpired in the 10 years leading up to Idi Amin's drastic decision?13:31 - Amin's Announcement: How did it practically reshape lives and lead to the exodus?21:49 - Rebuilding from Scratch: How did the expelled showcase resilience and start anew in foreign lands?25:00 - Modern UK's Stance: How do you perceive contemporary British policies on immigration?28:16 - Ugandan Asians' UK Footprint: What significant impact have they made in the UK?31:55 - Author's Intent: What myths or misconceptions are you aiming to debunk with your book?37:11 - Global Diaspora & British Class Obsession: How does the UK's class fascination affect the portrayal of Ugandan Asians?41:37 - Home & Self: How do you define identity and belonging in the context of displacement?45:37 - Upcoming Endeavors: Can you hint at your future projects?46:48 - Enduring Legacy: How have Ugandan Asians sculpted their legacy in the UK?49:04 - Wrapping Up: Final thoughts on the Ugandan Asian journey and its significance.

Sep 16, 2023 • 1h 37min
Banged Up Abroad: 28 Days In The World's Worst Prison | Amardeep Bassey
★ Join the Ramblings of a Sikh YouTube Channel ★ ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★ ★ Buy this podcast a coffee ★In an unexpected turn of events, Amardeep Bassey, a distinguished British journalist traveling to Afghanistan for an assignment, is suddenly swept up in a whirlwind of accusations. Allegedly committing the crime of espionage, he is apprehended by Pakistan's prestigious intelligence agency, the ISI.00:00 - Opening Remarks01:47 - Delving into the Life and Work of Amardeep Bassey03:29 - Tracing Your Journey: How Did Journalism Choose You?04:43 - What was Your Experience as a Journalist of Colour During the 70s and 80s?08:01 - From Pen to Podium: Your Transition to Lectureship21:22 - Television versus Print Media: What are the Distinctive Characteristics of Both?22:53 - Stories that Left an Indelible Impression: Can You Share a Few?25:39 - Unraveling the Secrets of Investigative Journalism: Any Tips or Techniques to Share?30:08 - Navigating the Complexities of Data Breaches, Whistleblowers, and Journalism33:24 - Memorable Encounters: Who are the People That Left an Impact on You?36:18 - An Insightful Discussion with Present Day Khalistani, Bhittu39:11 - Understanding Separatist Movements: Is it Correct to View Them as a Homogenous Block?46:04 - Reminiscing Your Days in Afghanistan: What was it Like?01:28:47 - The Aftermath of Incarceration: What was the Impact on You?01:33:04 - What Exactly Happened to Naushad?

Aug 16, 2023 • 38min
The History of Football | Tony Collins
★ Join the Ramblings of a Sikh YouTube Channel ★ ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★ ★ Buy this podcast a coffee ★Join me in an enlightening conversation with Dr. Tony Collins, a renowned British social historian with a specific focus on the multifaceted world of sports history. As an emeritus professor of history at De Montfort University and a Research Fellow at the Institute of Sports Humanities, Dr. Collins brings a wealth of knowledge and insights into the game of football—or 'soccer,' as known in the United States.In this episode, we'll be diving deep into the rich history of football, exploring how it evolved from a fringe hobby to a global phenomenon. Dr. Collins will also share his unique perspective as a visiting professor at Beijing Sports University in 2018.Here's what we'll cover:00:00 - Introduction to the History of Football00:44 - What Is the Rich History of Football, and How Did It Evolve?04:26 - The Rise of Football: How Did Football Transform from a Sideline Interest into the World's Most-Loved Winter Sport?07:14 - The Influence of the Elite: How Did the Upper Class and Private Schools Shape Football's History, and How Did It Become a Working-Class Passion?11:56 - A Game of Many Faces: What Are the Various Variations of Football, and What Distinguishes Them?19:50 - A Political & Cultural Connection: How Does Gaelic Football Relate to Irish Nationalism?24:05 - Breaking Barriers: What Are the Key Moments and Challenges in the History of Women's Football?28:43 - A Journey Through Time: If You Could Revisit One Historic Football Game, Which Would It Be, and Why?31:43 - A Hot Topic: As a Football Historian, What Are Your Thoughts on the European Super League?


