Shocking: New UK Documentary Exposes Brutal Racist Attacks on Indians

The series sheds light on key events such as the Southall protests, the Battle for Brick Lane, and the Bradford 12, often overlooked in mainstream narratives

Digital Desk: The new UK documentary, "Defiance: Fighting the Far Right," delves into the brutal experiences of British Indians during the 1970s and 80s, facing racist attacks. Through archival footage and firsthand accounts, it reveals how the community defended itself against cruel assaults orchestrated by far-right groups like the National Front. 

The series sheds light on key events such as the Southall protests, the Battle for Brick Lane, and the Bradford 12, often overlooked in mainstream narratives. Director Rajesh Thind, himself a British Punjabi, reflects on his childhood experiences and the resilience of South Asian communities. 

“Back then, my Ludhiana-born father would drive around with hockey sticks in the boot of his car in case we ever ran into far-right thugs as we went about our daily business,” said Rajesh Thind quoted by Hindustan Times, the British Punjabi director of one of the three episodes who grew up amid some of the upheaval in west London.

The documentary aims to dispel stereotypes and showcase the courage and resourcefulness of British Asians in the face of adversity. With contributions from BAFTA-winning production teams and Channel 4, the series underscores the importance of acknowledging the struggles and triumphs of minority communities.

“A comprehensive telling of the extraordinary experiences of a generation of Asian refugees and migrants who came to Britain and faced an unprecedented wave of racial violence, stood their ground and turned the tide, is long overdue,” said James Rogan as quoted by Hindustan Times, Executive Producer for Rogan Productions.

It begins with the tragic killing of Gurdip Singh Chaggar, sparking a confrontation between British Asians, black communities, and far-right activists. Actors Riz Ahmed and Allie Moore emphasize the significance of highlighting these stories of resistance and the timely relevance of the British Asian civil rights movement.