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First Indians in Canada: The story of their struggle and resilience
How violence affects the Indian diaspora in Canada
At a time when Americans held odd ideas about India, a poet set the record straight
How the Sassoons of Bombay became one of China’s wealthiest families
CEO Sundar Pichai rings alarm for software engineers, says 25 per cent Google software now written by AI
How bitcoin’s surge since Trump’s win could play out in India
First Indians in Canada: The story of their struggle and resilience
This article first appeared in the Indian Express on Oct 27, 2024. Perhaps it was fate. In 1897, some British-Indian soldiers from Punjab, part of an official delegation from Hong Kong, set sail on the RMS Empress of India to London to celebrate Queen Victoria’s diamond jubilee. On the way, they docked at Vancouver in British Columbia. Among the soldiers was Kesur Singh, a battle-hardened Risaldar Major in the 25th Cavalry of the Frontier Force who is today considered the first Indian settler in Canada. Five years later, on June 3, 1902, another batch of Indian soldiers sailed into Victoria Harbour aboard the RMS Queen of Japan. Most of them were enterprising men from villages in Punjab’s districts of Jalandhar, Ferozepur, Ludhiana, Amritsar and Gurdaspur. They liked what they saw, as did the locals, who seemed intrigued by their turbans. “Turbaned Men Excite Interest,” screamed the headline of a local paper. Between 1904 and 1908, the number of migrants from Punjab surged from 50 to 5,000. These men, who almost always arrived alone since Canadian rules prohibited entry for women and children under 18 years — only nine Indian women entered Canada between 1904 and 1920 — worked in the timber industry, fishing and railways for wages as low as $1 a day, much lower than local Canadians. With limited funds, they banded together, with dozens staying in bunkhouses. Find More Global Indian Top Reads Reference: Indian Express
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How violence affects the Indian diaspora in Canada
The article is first appeared in Hindustan Times on Nov 9, 2024. The Indian diaspora in Canada, a cornerstone of the country’s multicultural society, is grappling with a surge in violence and ideological discord. This thriving community of over 1.8 million people has historically been celebrated for its contributions to Canada’s economy and culture. However, recent developments, marked by acts of vandalism and targeted threats, have cast a shadow over its otherwise harmonious existence. A significant driver of this tension lies in the Khalistan separatist movement, a divisive issue among Indian-origin Sikhs in Canada. For some, Khalistan represents a quest for Sikh autonomy, while others see it as a threat to unity and peace. These ideological rifts, often exacerbated by inflammatory social media campaigns, have led to a rise in hate crimes. Temples have been defaced with pro-Khalistan slogans, and individuals critical of separatism have faced harassment, creating an environment of fear and distrust within the community. Diplomatic friction between India and Canada has further complicated matters. Disagreements over issues such as human rights, activism, and Canada’s perceived tolerance of extremist elements have strained relations. For instance, Canada’s vocal support for the Indian farmers’ protests was seen by some as interference in domestic affairs, igniting resentment in certain segments of the diaspora. The broader implications of these disputes trickle down, exacerbating divisions and creating fertile ground for extremism to thrive. The impact extends beyond community safety, posing challenges for bilateral relations. Trade partnerships, educational exchanges, and immigration policies could suffer if the current tensions persist. Indian students, a vital demographic in Canadian universities, might reconsider studying in Canada due to safety concerns, potentially affecting the skilled labor pipeline that supports the Canadian economy. Addressing this growing issue requires coordinated action at multiple levels. Governments must work collaboratively to de-escalate tensions, perhaps by enhancing dialogue on contentious topics while ensuring that hate crimes are met with strict enforcement of the law. Community leaders have a critical role in fostering mutual understanding and countering extremist narratives. Initiatives promoting dialogue and unity within the diaspora can serve as vital tools for reconciliation. The Indian diaspora’s well-being is vital to both nations’ shared future. Safeguarding this community requires a commitment to fostering inclusion and respect while tackling the ideological and diplomatic challenges that threaten its harmony. By working together, India and Canada can ensure that their relationship remains robust and their multicultural ideals intact. Find More Global Indian Top Reads Reference: Hindustan Times
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At a time when Americans held odd ideas about India, a poet set the record straight
The article is first appeared in Scroll.in on August 13, 2024. Krishnalal Shridharani, an Indian poet, playwright, and Gandhian activist, played a pivotal role in challenging misconceptions Americans held about India during the 1930s. At a time when few Indians pursued education in the United States due to distance, cost, and restrictive immigration policies, Shridharani boldly chose to study at New York University, earning a master’s degree in sociology and economics. Most Indian students of the era favored Britain or Germany, making his decision unique and significant. Shridharani’s journey was deeply influenced by his connections with notable figures like Rabindranath Tagore and Mahatma Gandhi. He had participated in Gandhi’s famous 1930 Dandi March and was even imprisoned for his involvement in India’s independence movement. After his release, he joined Tagore’s Santiniketan, where his interactions with visiting American instructors piqued his interest in studying abroad. Supported by a scholarship arranged by Tagore, Shridharani arrived in the United States in 1934. America in the 1930s was home to only about 4,000 Indians, including Sikh farmers in California and a small number of professionals and students. This limited presence meant many Americans had limited exposure to Indian culture, leading to widespread misconceptions. In his acclaimed book My India, My America, Krishnalal Shridharani recounted his experiences in bridging this cultural gap. He skillfully narrated his encounters, offering an authentic representation of India’s heritage, values, and struggles. His work emphasized the philosophical depth of Indian traditions and the modern aspirations of its people, countering the exoticized and often inaccurate narratives popular in the West. Shridharani’s time in the United States highlighted the contrasts between the Indian identity and how it was perceived abroad. Through his writings and public engagements, he became an ambassador of Indian culture, challenging stereotypes and encouraging a more nuanced understanding of his homeland. His ability to articulate India’s socio-political and cultural realities resonated with American audiences, fostering greater appreciation and respect for a nation often misunderstood. His efforts remain significant, as they paved the way for a deeper and more meaningful dialogue between India and the West. Shridharani’s legacy is a testament to the power of cultural exchange and education in breaking down barriers and promoting global understanding, particularly at a time when India’s voice was rarely heard on the international stage. Find More Global Indian Top Reads Reference: scroll.in
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How the Sassoons of Bombay became one of China’s wealthiest families
The article is first appeared in Scroll.in on November 9, 2024. The Sassoons family, originally Jewish merchants from Baghdad, rose to prominence as one of the most influential business dynasties in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Their journey began when David Sassoon, the patriarch, fled religious persecution in Ottoman Baghdad and settled in Bombay (modern-day Mumbai). There, he established a trade empire centered on textiles, cotton, and opium, leveraging Bombay's position as a crucial hub in British-controlled India. The Sassoons’ early success was rooted in their ability to adapt to the colonial economic systems and form strategic partnerships with British authorities and other powerful merchants. Their business flourished as they expanded into China during a period when the opium trade was lucrative and controversial. Shanghai, emerging as a cosmopolitan trading hub, became a focal point of their operations. The family utilized their wealth to build prominent landmarks, including opulent homes and commercial buildings, many of which symbolized their integration into elite circles while retaining their unique cultural identity. In Shanghai, the Sassoons family extended their empire by investing in real estate, shipping, and banking. They established the famous Cathay Hotel (now the Fairmont Peace Hotel), which became a beacon of luxury and a testament to their architectural ambitions. Their business practices were modern for their time, with a strong emphasis on globalization and innovation, as they were among the first to adopt Western corporate practices. However, the Sassoon legacy is not without controversy. Their involvement in the opium trade highlights the darker aspects of colonial-era commerce. The trade had devastating effects on Chinese society, leading to the Opium Wars and a legacy of exploitation that complicates their otherwise remarkable story. Beyond business, the Sassoons contributed significantly to philanthropy and cultural development. They built schools, synagogues, and hospitals in Bombay, Shanghai, and beyond, often blending their commercial success with efforts to support Jewish and local communities. Today, the Sassoon name remains associated with both their achievements and the complexities of their era. Their story is a microcosm of the larger narrative of globalization during the 19th century, illustrating how diasporic communities could achieve extraordinary success by navigating the intersections of culture, commerce, and power during a period of rapid global change. Find More Global Indian Top Reads Reference: scroll.in
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CEO Sundar Pichai rings alarm for software engineers, says 25 per cent Google software now written by AI
Google CEO Sundar Pichai revealed a striking statistic during the company's recent third-quarter 2024 earnings call: over 25 per cent of Google’s new code is now generated by artificial intelligence (AI) and subsequently reviewed by human engineers. What does this mean for software engineers and coders? It marks a fundamental shift in the coding landscape, where AI increasingly shares the workload. Before you lose your cool. It may not necessarily mean coders losing their jobs, but that AI can enable engineers to focus on higher-level problem-solving and innovation. That said, while automation boosts efficiency, it also raises questions about the future need for entry-level and routine coding jobs, pushing engineers to adapt their skills to remain competitive in an AI-driven landscape. This means, coders and software engineers may need to develop complementary skills in overseeing, refining, and guiding AI-generated code. (The article first appeared in India Today on October 30, 2024)
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How bitcoin’s surge since Trump’s win could play out in India
The President-elect of the United States of America, Donald Trump has chosen tech billionaire Elon Musk to lead a newly-created Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) for his incoming administration. Republican Vivek Ramaswamy will work with Musk on the project – whose acronym refers to Musk’s favourite cryptocurrency Dogecoin. The acronym for the newly created position, which found place in an official Trump statement, is in many ways symbolic of some of the positive messaging the President-elect had throughout his campaign around cryptocurrencies, which included announcing bitcoin a strategic reserve, and favourable energy policies for crypto miners. Since Trump’s victory, bitcoin has reached an all-time high, and is close to breaching six figures. (The article first appeared in The Indian Express on November 14, 2024)
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PM Narendra Modi Engages with World Leaders at G20 Summit in Brazil
PM Narendra Modi Engages with World Leaders at G20 Summit in Brazil
PM Narendra Modi Engages with World Leaders at G20 Summit in Brazil
PM Narendra Modi Engages with World Leaders at G20 Summit in Brazil
PM Narendra Modi Engages with World Leaders at G20 Summit in Brazil
Ajay Banga Leads TIME’s 2024 List of Influential Climate Leaders
Prime Minister Narendra Modi received Nigeria’s second-highest national award, the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi received Nigeria’s second-highest national award, the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger.
Mukesh Ambani becomes first Indian to feature on Fortune’s list of 100 Most Powerful People in Business
Harmanpreet Singh and PR Sreejesh won the FIH Player and Goalkeeper of the Year awards at a ceremony in Muscat,Oman
Harmanpreet Singh and PR Sreejesh won the FIH Player and Goalkeeper of the Year awards at a ceremony in Muscat,Oman
Harmanpreet Singh and PR Sreejesh won the FIH Player and Goalkeeper of the Year awards at a ceremony in Muscat,Oman
Making India Proud: Delhi’s Chinmay Sharma Sets Guinness World Record With Highest 360 Kick
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