Thread by @sunny_hundal

Thank you for all the kind msgs about #YoungSikhandProud on BBC, especially from family, who loved the portrayal of Jagraj.

Disappointed that many who privately say they loved it don't want to say it publicly in fear of being criticised.
My thoughts
facebook.com/notes/sunny-hu…

A bit surprised by a few things.

1) Some notable people went out of their way to stop anyone working with me on this film.

Now they're complaining I didn't speak to more Sikh groups. 🤔

2) Yes, it covered a lot of issues, sometimes superficially. But this was a short-ish documentary for a very white, mainstream audience.

We debated every nuance that needed to be added against whether it would just add more confusion or needed further explanation.

3) Some think I shouldn't cover any controversial issues. Or not interview marginal groups like the NSYF.

I think we are intelligent and mature enough to debate difficult issues in public. That is a lot more authentic than a puff piece just praising people.

4) Why bring in so many different issues?

Because at its heart this was about our search for identity and belonging - with faith, nation, community, family pulling us in different directions.

We can discuss differences without accusing each other of being 'anti-Sikh'.

5) I am not and have never been 'anti Sikh' - though there is definitely a campaign to portray me as such by some people, who take my words out of context and send them around on videos.

I will always highlight human-rights-abuses against Sikhs and false accusations of terrorism

6) Some Sikh groups are also claiming this film didn't accurately portray Sikhism. This doc wasn't about Sikhi. I don't have the knowledge to make such a doc.

It was about me exploring why my brother went on a very different journey to me.

7) Why did I raise incidents that took place much later after Jagraj died?

To illustrate that tensions among Sikhs (and the threat of intimidation and violence) is still an issue today. It happened during interfaith weddings, is happening now. We should discuss, not intimidate.