In this powerful special episode of The Phulkaari Podcast, we sit down with Pooja and Nikita Kanda—mother and sister of Ronan Kanda—to talk about the devastating loss of their only son and brother, murdered in 2022 by two Sikh Punjabi boys. Since then, they have led the #JusticeForRonanKanda campaign, calling for awareness, accountability, and change which lead to the introduction of Ronan's Law.

This episode explores the deep and urgent issue of knife crime within South Asian communities. We reflect on a recent incident in Smethwick, where Sikh youth in full Khalsa attire were seen armed with a knife and threatening a young boy with murder over alleged debts. Together, we ask: three years on from Ronan’s death, what—if anything—has the community learned?

In this thought-provoking episode, we embark on a deep dive into the often overlooked dynamics of female perpetrators and enmeshment, particularly focusing on the complex relationships between mothers and their sons and the impact on patterns of domestic abuse.

Our 2022 surveyed over 800 Sikh Panjabi women and girls living in the UK where 1/3 of women who had experienced domestic abuse identified their mothers-in-law as the principal perpetrator. 

With a compassionate and critical lens, we confront the societal myths and misconceptions surrounding female perpetrators of abuse and the intricate web of enmeshment that can perpetuate generational cycles of violence within families. Through candid conversations and nuanced analysis, we seek to broaden the discourse on domestic abuse to encompass the diversity of experiences and narratives that shape these often taboo relationships.

In this compelling episode, we embark on a profound exploration of the intricate nuances surrounding spiritual abuse and faith-based exploitation, confronting the unspoken challenges faced by individuals within religious communities. Our perspective are focusing on the Sikh community and Sikh faith institutions and the break down of Sikh preaching in its honest form and what that has been replaced with and the harm caused to vulnerable congregation members

Drawing from real-life experiences and expert insights, we navigate the delicate yet imperative discourse of spiritual abuse, shedding light on the manipulative tactics employed to exert control and inflict harm in the name of faith. Through introspective discussions, we aim to dismantle the barriers of silence and stigma, fostering a space for validation and healing for those affected by such insidious dynamics.

At the time of recording this episode. Four women of Sikh Panjabi Heritage who were born and living in the UK were killed by a man of Sikh Panjabi Heritage.  In this insightful episode, we delve into the grim reality of domestic homicides affecting Sikh Panjabi women born in the UK, shedding light on a sensitive yet crucial issue within the community.

We honour the resilience and memory of Sikh Panjabi women who have faced unimaginable challenges, and explore the transformative work of Sikh Women’s Aid in fostering healing, empowerment, and justice in the face of domestic homicides. 

Please tune in to our podcast episode as we navigate the complexities of domestic homicides among Sikh Panjabi women born in the UK, weaving together stories of survival, solidarity, and hope in the pursuit of a safer and more equitable tomorrow.

In Episode 5 of The Phulkaari Podcast, we delve into a pressing and heartbreaking issue that has recently come to the forefront – Domestic Homicides of Indian Students in the UK. Focusing on high-profile cases involving Sikh Punjabi women and girls who arrive in the UK to pursue their studies, often with spouses, we navigate the intricate web of challenges faced by these students.

Our discussion goes beyond the surface, exploring the complexities that arise from the intersection of cultural norms and outdated practices. We shed light on the unfortunate reality where toxic cultural traditions become barriers, preventing women from escaping violent and abusive relationships.

Join us as we amplify the voices of those affected, examine the systemic issues contributing to these tragedies, and engage in a crucial conversation about breaking the chains that bind. This episode aims to raise awareness, foster empathy, and inspire action towards creating a safer environment for Indian students pursuing education abroad.

For this episode, The Sikh Women's Aid team discuss the role of the media using victims blaming narratives when reporting on domestic homicides. The Panel is joined by RP Makeup Creator Ravita Pannu. Ravita was appointed as the first ambassador for Sikh Women's Aid in 2022.

We discuss the media reporting of high-profile murder cases in the media at the time of recording. Full stories can be found at:-

These were the news reports and stories that inspired this episode

1. Epsom College headteacher and husband had marriage counselling before 'murder-suicide
https://www.lbc.co.uk/news/epsom-college-headteacher-husband-marriage-counselling-murder-suicide/ -

2. Police to face questions over Nicola Bulley disclosures
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-64675996

3. Sarah Everard: How Wayne Couzens planned her murder
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-58746108

4: Surjit Atwal's murderer and mother-in-law set to be freed from Jail.
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-10875247/Grandmother-arranged-daughter-law-lured-India-murdered-set-FREED.html

This week our panel is talking all things Bollywood/Panjabi films. For better or worse The Bollywood/Panjabi Film industry shaped the beliefs and values of a generation of Indians, especially those born in the West but had strong ties to the Indian subcontinent. This week we discuss the impact of Bollywood's past, present and future direction and its impact on diaspora South Asians.

In our second episode of The Phulkaari, the team at Sikh Women's Aid explore the whole life journey of Sikh Panjabi women and girl who experience abuse. We explore The Womb aspect in detail and explore female infanticide and abuse in relation to the birth of a daughter and how these harmful practices are incompatible with the high values of Sikh and Panjabi culture. 

 This is a fascinating discussion not to be missed!  

An Introduction gives listeners insights into Sikh Women's Aid and the aim of this podcast. You can find out about the journey to launch Sikh Women's Aid and why it is so important to have specialist, female led qualified support staff to help victims and survivors of Domestic and sexual abuse.