The musical uprising of Bant Singh
A friend recently sent me this short documentary on the Punjabi Dalit activist and singer, Bant Singh. Surprised that I had never heard of him, I was not only blown away by his singing, but by his revolutionary lyrics and fierce commitment to resisting caste and class oppression.
“If we’re to starve,” he states, “we may as well fight for our freedom. At least we’ll be remembered. Move away from living on the streets, or our thatched hovels. Let’s all become Bhagat Singh, become masters of this nation, stop this looting, stop the violation of our wives and sisters.” (source)
His righteous activism led to him being beaten almost to death a few years back, resulting in the loss of 3 of his limbs. But as you’ll see below in this video, a result of a new collaboration of artists called The Bant Singh Project, he still sings. And is not backing down on his message either.
6 Responses to “The musical uprising of Bant Singh”
I love this documentary, thank you so much for sharing it. I am inspired by the joy in his eyes and the resiliency of his heart. There is so much power in his words being sung rather than just said, it reminds me how powerful and important art is in communicating to the world.
hey, indian commonwealth games – including opening and closing ceremonies – had a heavy sikh participation. it'd be great if you guys highlight it. thank you.
About this documentary, one thing struck as interesting … this blog seems to be in support of khalistan in general … however, pash – who like Bant Singh carried on Udasi's ideology – was murdered by khalistani terrorists in 1989. ironic, isn't it?
Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa, Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh!
Oh Waheguru! This so appallingly upsetting! I will not say anything about this unfair sense of prejudice. This is just simply and most exceptionally disgusting! The fact that this classification system is still used till this day! Grow up people and while you are at it, get over yourselves! Playing such childish games will not get you anywhere!
I am currently completing an article, I started on the Caste System (and have been for quite a while). My brain went blank in between, I didn’t know what to say. How could I have possibly gotten my point across? Now, I know. After hearing Bant Singh’s story, I know how I wish to complete it. Bant Singh’s account is my very inspiration!
Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa, Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh!
~ Simran Kaur
Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa, Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh!
Oh Waheguru! This so appallingly upsetting! I will not say anything about this unfair sense of prejudice. This is just simply and most exceptionally disgusting! The fact that this classification system is still used till this day! Grow up people and while you are at it, get over yourselves! Playing such childish games will not get you anywhere!
I am currently completing an article, I started on the Caste System (and have been for quite a while). My brain went blank in between, I didn’t know what to say. How could I have possibly gotten my point across? Now, I know. After hearing Bant Singh’s story, I know how I wish to complete it. Bant Singh’s account is my very inspiration!
Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa, Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh!
~ Simran Kaur
I always love the music and the way you shared this bant Singh music motivation to me I really impressed with his music and thinking. I hope that other people will able to impress with these type of thinking from the people.