'No English'
HGVOICES

Same Heritage, Different Land: ‘No English’ Documents Brampton’s South Asian Diaspora

Meghna Mathew

A unique characteristic of culture and tradition is that it knows no geographical bounds –– the South Asian diaspora in Brampton, and in many other parts of the world are a testament to that.

Short film ‘No English’ directed by Japi is a beautiful representation of the city of Brampton in Canada, and the diversity it is home to. The community that takes up the city, in all its glory, is portrayed through its different facets –– various occupations, activities and an overall sense of compassionate living.

From the sale of freshly fried samosas to a tough match of Kabbadi, ‘No English’ is South Asian through and through. ‘Multiculturalism’ at its best, the film does a lot to convey how heritage sometimes might be displaced, but never uprooted.

‘No English’ is devoid of spoken word, but excels at capturing all that’s meant to come across on screen –– the love people of the community hold for each other and the immense pride in being South Asian.

Director/Cinematographer: Japi

Co-Director/Composer: Harmen Baidwan

Co-Director/Art Direction: Guramrit Athwal

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