Punjab: Mukerian filmmaker brings Sikh history to life

Punjab: Despite hailing from Mukerian, a small village in Hoshiarpur district, Jagmeet Singh Samundri has carved a niche for himself in the Indian film industry by devoting himself to Sikh history and culture. His journey has been filled with passion, struggle, and perseverance. Today, he has emerged as one of the leading filmmakers, consistently bringing stories of Sikh valor, sacrifice, and spirituality to a global audience. After completing his Master’s degree in Mass Communication from Punjab University, Chandigarh, in 1999, Samundri moved to Mumbai around 2000 to pursue his cinematic dream. The initial years were not easy. “I always dreamed of working in Mumbai. After struggling for a few years, I joined Ajay Devgan’s father, Veeru Devgan, as an assistant,” he recalls. Along the way, he also worked on advertising films, corporate projects, and small screen assignments to make ends meet and hone his filmmaking skills. However, Samundri’s true calling stems from his deep fascination with Sikh history. Under his banner, Samundri Creations, he has directed numerous influential documentaries and films that showcase the resilience, sacrifice, and spiritual strength of the Sikh community.

His acclaimed documentary, “Rise of the Khalsa,” depicts the origins of the Khalsa Panth and the vibrant activities during Hola Mohalla. It won the Best Director Award at the New York International Film Festival. Following this success, he made another documentary, “Martyrs,” which garnered international recognition and acclaim. He explains, “I toured 12 countries with my “Martyrs”—Ghana, Nigeria, Hong Kong, Thailand, Australia, Denmark, Italy, Germany, Sweden, Norway, the United States, and Canada.” The film captivated audiences worldwide, and even many non-Sikhs appreciated its storytelling and historical depth. In foreign markets, its audiences exceeded those of many Punjabi feature films, with some people even driving three to four hours to see it. Another significant work by Samundri is “Saka: The Martyrs of Nankana Sahib,” based on the massacre that took place in Nankana Sahib in 1921. He has also experimented with other genres, such as directing Vash, a horror-romantic film, though his heart beats for Sikh history.
A special screening of “Shaheed” (Relive History as It Unfolds) at the Maverick Preview Theatre in Mumbai was attended by Bollywood actors Yashpal Sharma and Upasana Singh, along with renowned producers and directors. This 80-minute documentary, covering Sikh history from the sect’s inception to 1735, was widely praised for its unique narrative style. “The storytelling is unique. While making this film, we were fully aware of the Sikh code of conduct (Rahat Maryada),” Samundri explains. Looking ahead, he is working on ambitious projects like “Shahadat” and “Shaheedi Jatha,” based on the lives of Baba Deep Singh and Bhai Mani Singh. “These projects are very close to my heart,” he says. With his blend of meticulous research, authentic re-creations, and cinematic storytelling, Samundri has emerged as a filmmaker who not only entertains but also educates. “My aim is to bring Sikh history to the masses, especially the younger generation and the diaspora. These stories should not be forgotten.” His films still serve as a bridge connecting people to the glorious past and eternal values ​​of Sikhism.