The Dark Chapter

Dark Chapter illuminates the profound human toll of the horrific 1984 riots, one of modern India’s darkest tragedies. Through intimate storytelling, the film depicts how violence reverberated across generations, as families continually seek justice and healing from immense loss. Dark Chapter puts faces and voices to tragedy, exploring the lingering trauma that afflicts survivors and descendants of the innocent lives brutally ended. It stands as a stark reminder that we cannot forget barbarity if we wish to prevent its recurrence. This emotional chronicle of people united by unspeakable sorrow reveals humanity’s resilience in the quest for truth and closure. Dark Chapter brings light to unhealed wounds so they may find peace.

Bruce Singh The Lumberjack

The Lumberjack is a fun interactive bedtime story for children

Bhangra dance workshop by Sahej Kaur Chawla

A Bhangra dance session for children will be led by Sahej Kaur Chawla, a pharmacy student at UCI and UCLA alum. Sahej will be teaching the lively folk dance Bhangra, which originates from Punjab, India. Having practiced Bhangra since childhood and performed with UCLA’s Bruin Bhangra team, Sahej is excited to share her passion with the next generation. She has also been a  graduate advisor for UCI’s Rang De Irvine Bhangra team. In this beginner-friendly workshop, children will learn the vibrant steps of Bhangra.

The Saviour

This film spotlights Singh’s daring escape from Singapore and arduous 3000 mile journey to India, for which he earned the Military Cross. When Pakistan attacked Kashmir, Singh rapidly mobilized to defend Srinagar airport and defeat invaders at Shellatang.

Against orders, he heroically entered besieged Poonch with just 419 soldiers, raising local militias and building an airbase to enable reinforcements. Singh’s bold gambit saved thousands, though it led to court martial.Interviews affirm Singh fought gallantly against overwhelming odds. This film seeks to honor his selfless courage and exonerate his reputation. The Saviour is a testament to one officer’s peerless grit in Kashmir’s darkest hour.

Davinder Singh

Davinder Singh is an acclaimed Indo-Canadian director, actor, and producer known for impactful projects like Waleed, What’s Your Identity, and Beneath the Makeup. Waleed earned honors as the 3rd Best North Indian Film. Singh’s recent productions include Apna Farz, Basera, Patka Box, Bold Helmets, and Benaqab Chehre on Chaupal TV. With several compelling films in the pipeline for 2024, Singh continues to garner attention for his acting, writing, and directorial skills. 

Only Kewal

Over the past decade, Only Kewal has honed his acting craft across a range of theatrical productions. He finds joy in both comedic and socially conscious roles, appreciating the chance to explore varied emotions and insights into society. Since 2013, Kewal has performed with multiple theatre groups, most recently acting in three Punjabi stage plays in 2023. His repertoire also includes a supporting role in the short film Identity.

Sat Sri Akal

Sat Sri Akaal illuminates the significance behind the common Sikh greeting, which many in the community utter daily without fully grasping its profound meaning. The film explores how most Sikhs mispronounce the phrase as “Sas Ri Kaal” or “Shashi Kaal Ji” rather than the correct “Sat Sri Akaal.”

Sat Sri Akaal delves into roots of this phrase in the Sikh tradition. It aims to educate viewers on the true essence behind the greeting. It encourages reflection on how we can recapture the essence of “Sat Sri Akaal” and restore understanding of its original purpose.

Home Sweet Home

The NBC show Home Sweet Home featured an interesting episode where a Southern California Sikh family exchanged homes for a week with a Jewish family. By living in each other’s households, meeting relatives and neighbors, they gained insights into their respective cultures and faiths. This immersive experience facilitated mutual understanding between the families as they experienced one another’s traditions firsthand. Through the simple act of sharing meals, having conversations, and observing daily rituals in an authentic setting, deep bonds and empathy were fostered. 

Basera

Basera, a documentary by Sikhlens, offers an intimate look into the lives of elderly residents at Akal Old Age Home in the serene locale of Sas Nagar, Mohali. With compassionate care, the film explores the final dwelling place for many, unveiling the unspoken emotions and whispers of its revered inhabitants. Recognized as a peaceful sanctuary, Akal provides a refuge for older adults in need of shelter and community in their twilight years.

Through interviews and glimpses into daily life, the film paints a moving portrait of the residents’ diverse experiences, memories, emotions, and hopes woven together by an enduring spirit of resilience. Viewers journey through Akal’s clean, well-kept halls where the essence of home resonates. Each story illuminates the universal human needs for belonging, recognition, and dignity at life’s end.

Breaking Barriers: The Manka Dhingra Story

Breaking Barriers: The Manka Dhingra Story spotlights the groundbreaking journey of Manka Dhingra, the first Sikh woman elected to any U.S. state legislature. With over two decades of experience in law and behavioral health, Dhingra now serves as Deputy Majority Leader of the Washington State Senate, chairing the Senate Law & Justice Committee. She is currently running for Attorney General of the state of Washington. The film explores Dhingra’s historic political rise, public service accomplishments, and justice reform efforts. We glimpse her remarkable resilience reshaping politics while breaking entrenched barriers.

Connecting the Dots

Connecting The Dots follows Rubab Chishti, a young architect passionately changing historic conservation in Pakistan. It showcases her dedication to restoring the 190-year-old Gurdwara Choa Sahab, an abandoned Gurudwara within the Rohtas Fort. Since 1947, this pioneering project marks the first proper Gurudwara conservation effort in Pakistan. We witness Chishti challenging longstanding traditions of superficial restoration. Through preserving cultural touchstones like Choa Sahab, she connects the dots between past and future, dedicating herself to saving Pakistan’s living heritage.

Desperately Seeking Sikh

Tensions run high during dinner as a couple is educated on Panjabi culture, language, and some of the principles of Sikhism by a Sikh guest.

Sacred Thread in Lima

Embark on a  journey with Partap Singh Khalsa, a Sikh man living in the heart of Lima, Peru. Partap shares his unique perspective on life, Sikhism, and the beautiful fusion of cultures that define his world. Married to a Spanish lady, he bridges the gap between East and West effortlessly, speaking fluent Spanish and weaving the rich tapestry of his multicultural life.

As the viewer, you’ll be immersed in the breathtaking landscapes of Peru, following Partap Singh Khalsa as he navigates the bustling streets of Lima and ventures into the serene beauty of the Peruvian countryside. Through his lens, you’ll discover the profound philosophy of Sikhism and the universal messages of peace, love, and equality that it embodies. Partap Singh Khalsa’s mission is to educate and enlighten people from around the world about Sikhism, and his charismatic presence and profound insights make this journey both enlightening and enriching. 

Pouri

Pouri is a documentary exploring the mass migration of young Punjabis to Western countries like Canada and the cultural crisis this has sparked. The film reveals the perspectives of two generations living through drastic change.  In Punjab, anxious parents confront empty nests as their children leave home to pursue opportunities abroad. Though proud, they express grief at losing their youth’s presence. The young describe social pressures to emigrate at all costs, though their hearts remain with the homeland. Overseas, transplanted youth reveal struggles to balance heritage and assimilation, questioning their identity in a foreign land. 

The Stevia Story 

The Stevia Story follows the Gandhi family, first-generation farmers who pioneered the introduction of stevia to India. Despite challenges as newcomers to agriculture, they were driven by a vision to cultivate a healthy, natural sweetener. Through footage of life on their farm, we witness the Gandhis’ perseverance through failed crops and skepticism. The passion and resilience lead to India’s first commercial stevia harvest. 

Which Way We Go

Which Way We Go is a documentary about the deportation of 700 international students from Canada. Beyond the deportations, it illuminates the everyday struggles facing these students trying to navigate a complex immigration system stacked against them. Many grappled with unaffordable housing, isolation, and balancing studies with multiple jobs. The film humanizes this controversial incident by highlighting the resilience of the students. 

Bollywood Goes Hollywood 

Veer only contacts his mother when he needs money, until a visit home puts him in a predicament. After a flirtatious encounter with Rupi in the elevator, Veer faces an ultimatum from his doting mother Shirina – she’ll only pay his bills if he agrees to an arranged marriage. When Veer realizes Rupi is now putting on a traditional act to impress Shirina, he aims to expose Rupi’s secret identity to his mother. 

Noor Zora

Noor Zora is an arts group comprised of men who perform the traditional Punjabi folk dance Giddha while dressed as women at weddings and functions. Through intimate interviews, the film explores the motivations and experiences of these performers who challenge gender norms by embracing this cultural artform. Noor Zora provides a window into the world of gender-bending dance in Punjab, revealing how these performers navigate family expectations, public perceptions, and their own identities.

Truckstop

The short narrative Truckstop shines a light on the experiences of Punjabi women immigrants working in truck stops across the California desert. It captures the stark realities and daily struggles of the Punjabi immigrant experience in this unique setting. The story follows Jasleen, who yearns to break free from the confines of the truck stop world. When an opportunity to leave finally arises, she makes a surprising choice that reveals the complexities of starting over in a new country. Through Jasleen’s story, Truckstop provides an intimate and empathetic lens into the lives of Punjabi women pursuing hopes of a better future, while confronting the harsh truths that emerge along the way.

Zindagi Dobara

Zindagi Dobara is a short narrative centering on a young South Asian teen whose life is upended when her parents are killed in a car accident. She is suddenly forced to live with a distant aunt she has never met or heard of before. Two strangers united by tragedy, they reluctantly embark on an emotional journey to coexist and perhaps one day find a new meaning of family. Zindagi Dobara explores the complex ties that bind us even in life’s most difficult moments.

Hidden Histories-The Sikh Migration Path to Canada

Hidden Histories: The Sikh Migration Path to Canada brings Karen Dosanjh’s book “Untold Stories: The South Asian Pioneer Experience in BC” to the screen. The documentary chronicles the arduous journey of the first Sikh migrants from India who arrived in Canada in the early 1900s seeking opportunity. It illuminates the discrimination and rampant anti-Asian sentiments these pioneer settlers faced in their adopted homeland. Viewers learn about key events in B.C.’s racial history including immigration bans and laws that stripped early South Asian communities of basic rights. Hidden Histories resuscitates forgotten stories of struggle, resistance, and resilience.

Maa

Maa tells the story of Dilreet and Kirat, two siblings who return to their ancestral village in Punjab to confront their estranged uncle about their mother’s tragic suicide. Still processing her childhood trauma, passionate Dilreet spearheads the confrontation, lashing out against their uncle for failing to protect her mother from abuse. Her fury ignites when the village women decline to join her petition against domestic violence, wary of rocking the boat.

Though disheartened, Dilreet finds hope when her recalcitrant uncle himself becomes the first to sign. The bittersweet ending suggests glimmers of progress amidst entrenched social norms. But Dilreet ultimately accepts the need for incremental change, letting go of her anger to pursue justice through education. 

The Invite

As his wedding day approaches, an Indian American man realizes his turban must be tied for his wedding and has to decide whether to invite his father to be a part of the biggest day of his life.

The Stevia Story

The Stevia Story follows the Gandhi family, first-generation farmers who pioneered the introduction of stevia to India. Despite challenges as newcomers to agriculture, they were driven by a vision to cultivate a healthy, natural sweetener. Through footage of life on their farm, we witness the Gandhis’ perseverance through failed crops and skepticism. The passion and resilience lead to India’s first commercial stevia harvest. 

Sarbat Da Bhala

Sarbat da Bhala (blessings for all) takes on new meaning through the selfless work of Manjinder Singh. Though now based in the US, Manjinder has been tirelessly providing meals to the underprivileged across seventeen locations in his native Punjab for years. Every day, his organization prepares and delivers over 50,000 cooked meals, dispatching mini-trucks to hospitals and shelters in need. For over a decade, these mobile kitchens have arrived 365 days a year, 24/7, powered by Manjinder’s passion and volunteers who cook through the night. The documentary showcases how one man’s service knows no borders or bounds, uplifting those facing hardship – from the sick and elderly to victims of disasters.

Rahao

This short dance film is an attempt to bring focus on simply pausing to lean back and enjoy the little pleasures of life.

Rahab—Strings of Oneness 

A cinematic history of the Rahab.

Echoes of Pothohar: A Journey Through Punjabi Musical Heritage

Echoes of Pothohar takes us on a journey through Punjabi Musical Heritage from the ancient cultural folk songs of the Pothohar region to the pounding beats of modern Bhangra.

Eternal Musicians  (Akaal Ke Rababiye)

The documentary Eternal Musicians (Akal Ke Rababiye) follows Ranjodh Singh and Lovejot Singh, traditional string instrument makers and players. It showcases their crafting of the Rabab, Saranda, and Taus, as well as their teachings of Gurbani recital through these instruments. By documenting their processes, the film preserves the legacy of these musicians keeping ancient Sikh practices alive through their reverberating strings.

Rails, Jails and Trolleys

Rails, Jails and Trolleys documents history’s largest farmers’ protest and the Canadian diaspora’s response to it. This groundbreaking documentary captures the electric ethos of a protest that received international attention and the resounding response by Canadians to the movement. A full year in the making the documentary tells the story of why and how the farmers’ movement ignited a nation and youth, women, and men from all over the world.

Sikh History on the Streets of London

Since 2003, London-based researcher Rav Singh has dedicated himself to developing captivating lectures that introduce audiences to the intricate histories of the Sikhs, Anglo-Sikhs, and Punjabi culture. Singh’s passion project, A little History of the Sikhs, was founded in 2014 to supplement his academic research with guided tours in London, across the UK, and throughout Europe. This community education initiative has grown to include a team of knowledgeable guides, creative illustrators who visually enhance the tours, and tech-savvy members who help create films and edit the stories.

When the COVID-19 pandemic halted their ability to conduct walking tours, day trips, and study visits in 2020, the team pivoted to capturing and presenting short video reels. These individual reels were then edited together to form Sikh History on the Streets of London, a compilation visual media record of London locations and the Sikh histories they reveal.

Apna Faraz

Apna Farz is a poignant documentary from the Sikhlens’ Community Voices program highlighting the inspiring work of Apna Farz Sewa Society in India – a beacon of hope for those trapped in illegal enslavement and homelessness. In a land where casteism and discrimination still persist, this society transcends boundaries by offering medical care, food, shelter and, most importantly, freedom to those chained in forced labor and poverty.

The film chronicles Pal Kharoud and his team’s compassionate efforts to rescue and rehabilitate individuals subjected to extreme suffering and inhumane conditions. From liberating a man enchained by his family for twelve years, to aiding the distressed, it depicts tales of the resilient human spirit triumphing over despair.

The Super Sikh 

The Super Sikh tells the heart-wrenching yet inspiring journey of a young Sikh man who strives to achieve his goals despite facing disability. We follow his unrelenting spirit as he works to transform what others see as a limitation into his greatest strength. We witness the prejudice he faces and cheer his perseverance to live life on his own terms. His passion and resilience in pursuing his dreams enable him to break barriers and embrace his full potential. 

Resilience of Faith 

The documentary Resilience of Faith celebrates Ramesh Singh Arora’s profound impact on the Sikh diaspora and devotion to preserving Sikh culture. Tracing his family’s ancestral roots in Pakistan and their steadfast faith back to his grandfather’s fateful decision to remain guided by the Guru’s teachings, the film explores this heritage.

It culminates with Arora’s landmark accomplishments of establishing the Kartarpur Peace Corridor and passing the pioneering Sikh Marriage Act. Through honoring one family’s sacrifices and service, the film illuminates the resilience and spirit of the global Sikh community.

Karda Reh Ardas 

Karda Reh Ardas tells the story of Gursewak Singh, a truck driver from Ropar, Punjab who decides to purchase his own truck by mortgaging all his possessions. But he soon realizes the challenges ahead are far greater than anticipated. Inspired by a famous folklore, the film explores Gursewak’s crisis of faith as his plans unravel. Despite mounting setbacks that test his perseverance and trust, Gursewak turns to prayer and divine grace to see him through the turmoil.

Lord and Lady Singh

Lord and Lady Singh encapsulates the remarkable lives and enduring impact of Lord Indarjit Singh and Lady Kawaljit Kaur Singh. Tracing their journey from colonial India to the heart of Britain, it weaves a tale of service, faith and promoting social harmony.

Amidst the backdrop of post-war Britain, Lord Singh’s narrative is one of resilience and purpose. An engineer by profession, his contributions span decades as an advocate for the UK Sikh community. His voice has resonated across BBC radio promoting messages of peace, understanding, and unity through programs such as BBC Radio 4’s “Thought for the Day” and “Pause for Thought” on BBC Radio 2. 

Together with his wife Lady Singh, who carries her own achievements including an OBE, they have built bridges between communities and upheld Sikh values on the global stage. More than just accomplishments, their story represents an enduring love and shared vision in making the world more just. The film provides an intimate portrait of two exemplary partners who have profoundly touched countless lives.

Badlaav 

Badlaav dives into a pressing concern shared by many within the Sikh community: the increasing detachment of the younger generation from the Gurdwaras. This compelling short film navigates the vibrant halls of the Gurdwaras, only to uncover a poignant absence – the dwindling presence of the youthful spirit. Badlaav underscores the widening rift between time-honored religious customs and the evolving aspirations of the contemporary youth. The film shines a spotlight on the Shabad Chowki, a tradition that resonates more than ever in today’s context despite being rooted in a history spanning 400 years.

But Badlaav is not just a reflection on the present. It emerges as a luminous beacon, illuminating the path forward. Addressing pressing concerns, the film proposes innovative solutions to mend the generational rift. It advocates for Gurdwaras to transform not just as places of worship but as dynamic community hubs that resonate with the passions and aspirations of young Sikhs. By weaving in modern pedagogies, encouraging candid conversations, and designing programs that captivate their interests, Gurdwaras can reclaim their pivotal role as hubs of community engagement and spiritual nourishment for all.

Solitary

With minutes left before U.S. forces level a Mujahideen camp, a Sikh prisoner trapped in solitary confinement turns to his faith to make a daring escape.

Me/Her

Two friends meet again after ten years to reconcile, rekindle, and regret old feelings.

The Sikh Soldier

During World War I, a Sikh soldier endures the horrors of battle while fighting for the British Empire on the frontlines. Haunted by trauma yet filled with valor, he survives the Great War only to be met with further turmoil back home in India. Though promised equality and freedom for his wartime sacrifices, he returns to find his country still under the oppression of colonial rule and he must perform one more barbaric duty as a soldier.

A Turban and a Beard

In September 2001, a Sikh man was murdered outside his gas station in one of the first hate crimes against the Sikh community following 9/11. The family shared that the killer saw only his turban and beard. Nearly twenty years later, despite much progress, a disturbing new wave of prejudice and nationalism has emerged. What was once more covert racism has alarmingly resurfaced. To counter these narratives, the filmmaker aims to provide a window into his own cultural, religious, and social upbringing as a Sikh American. 

Kaur

Kaur tells the story of a young Sikh woman who feels drawn to fully embrace her faith and heritage. Though women in the Sikh community do not traditionally wear turbans, she feels called to take the sacred Amrit initiation ceremony and don the turban herself. This decision does not align with her traditional father’s wishes, sparking familial conflict. As she perseveres in following her spiritual calling, she must find a balance between honoring her community’s traditions and staying true to her own convictions. This nuanced drama provides an intimate look at one woman’s personal journey of faith, identity, and finding one’s authentic self.

O My Beloved

This documentary celebrates Bhai Vir Singh, the father of modern Punjabi literature, on his 150th birth anniversary. Through writings spanning poetry, fiction, journalism and scholarship, Bhai Vir Singh revolutionized literary Punjabi and spearheaded a cultural renaissance.

He founded seminal institutions like Khalsa College and Punjab & Sind Bank that furthered Punjabi education and empowerment. Regarded as the greatest Sikh intellectual of the 20th century, Bhai Vir Singh earned tributes from Indian leaders for his humanism. Honored with top national awards, his legacy as a community trailblazer and literary pioneer continues to inspire and unite Punjabis worldwide.

The Sporty Sikh

The Sporty Sikh chronicles the thrilling adventures and inspirational journey of Amarjeet Singh, following his life of struggle and triumph fueled by a relentless passion for sports. Through interviews and behind-the-scenes footage, we witness Amarjeet chasing athletic dreams despite discrimination and limited resources. This emotional rollercoaster illuminates his perseverance to redefine what is possible.

One Beat

One Beat tells the uplifting story of American Sikh Bahadur Singh’s mission to bring free healthcare and medical education to the underserved in rural India. Based in the small town of Bhira, Uttar Pradesh, Bahadur established much-needed health facilities offering services, screenings, and medicines at no cost to impoverished communities. He didn’t stop there. Understanding the value of sustainability through knowledge, Bahadur also set up training programs to empower youth to become healthcare professionals and serve their local areas. One Beat chronicles how Bahadur’s visionary initiatives have transformed lives in a region with limited access to care. 

Dreams

The film Dreams showcases the journey of Diljott and her Dream Buds Foundation and how it has positively impacted the lives of the poor they work this and made a difference in their lives. This documentary portrays the dreams of a few of the many underprivileged people they have supported. 

Dreams is the latest Sikhlens Community Voices film. The Community Voices program creates films free of charge for nonprofits such as the Dream Buds Foundation to help them raise funds and recruit volunteers.