In a world where the fight against racism and fascism continues to be a critical battle, the life and legacy of Balwinder Singh Rana stand as a beacon of resilience and courage. Born in 1947 in Punjab, India, Rana’s journey to becoming an influential figure in the UK’s anti-racism and anti-fascism movements is both inspiring and motivational. His story is a testament to the power of standing up against injustice, regardless of the personal and societal challenges one might face.
Balwinder Singh Rana: Early Life and Arrival in the UK
Balwinder Singh Rana’s early life in India was marked by responsibility and perseverance. As a child, he walked two miles to school every day. When his father and two brothers moved to England, Rana took on the role of head of the family, managing the family farm in India. This sense of duty and resilience would later define his activism.
At the age of 16, Balwinder Singh Rana moved to Britain, reuniting with his father and brothers in Gravesend, Kent. His initial experiences in the UK were a stark contrast to his life in Punjab. “It was cold and wet,” he recalls.
“No one told us what it was like here, and seeing so many white people was a bit of a shock!” The cultural and climatic shock was compounded by the language barrier. An early encounter in a shop left him bewildered when he mistook “Cheerio,” a casual British farewell, for a greeting akin to the Indian “Sat Shri Akaal.”
Confronting Racism
Balwinder Singh Rana’s first brush with racial hostility came soon after his arrival. While on his way to a pub with his brother and friends, they were racially abused by a group of Teddy Boys. His brother’s reaction, a mix of fear and resignation, was indicative of the older generation’s approach to racism—avoidance and appeasement to avoid trouble. However, Rana, being younger and more fearless, questioned this passive approach, setting the stage for his future activism.
Formation of the Indian Youth Federation
The late 1960s were a tumultuous time in Britain, especially with the rise in racism following Enoch Powell’s infamous “Rivers of Blood” speech in 1968. During this period, Balwinder Singh Rana was studying for his A Levels at Gravesend College, and the escalating racism prompted him and other students to take action.
In 1969, they founded the Indian Youth Federation in Gravesend, the first Indian youth organization in the UK. The group’s launch coincided with Indian Independence Day celebrations, symbolizing a commitment to both their heritage and their new home.
The Indian Youth Federation’s mission was to empower South Asians in Britain, providing a platform to voice their concerns and challenge discriminatory practices.
By involving local MPs, mayors, and professionals with reputations for racism, the group sought to bridge gaps and foster understanding. This initiative inspired the formation of Asian Youth Movements across the UK, from Sheffield to Birmingham, significantly impacting the fight against racism in the 1970s and 1980s.
Anti-Nazi League and Further Activism
In 1977, Rana’s activism took a decisive turn when he joined the Anti-Nazi League. His involvement in the Battle of Lewisham, a confrontation between anti-fascist demonstrators and the National Front, marked the beginning of his full-time commitment to anti-fascism. Rana’s courage and leadership were evident during this period, as he stood on the front lines of numerous protests and demonstrations.
The 1990s brought further challenges, with the 1993 Welling riots highlighting the persistent threat of fascism. Rana’s dedication never wavered. He later co-founded Sikhs Against the English Defence League (EDL), organizing a significant counter-demonstration against the EDL in Luton in 2011. His efforts were crucial in mobilizing communities to stand against hatred and bigotry.
A Legacy of Vigilance
In October 2018, Balwinder Singh Rana joined an Anti-Nazi League protest against the Democratic Football Lads Alliance, a far-right group. “That’s the first time I’d seen 1,500 fascists,” he remarked, emphasizing the importance of community awareness and vigilance. For Rana, the fight against racism and fascism is not a relic of the past but an ongoing struggle. His activism continues to inspire new generations to recognize and combat the ever-present threats of racism and fascism.
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