Media Releases

New documentary series takes a closer look at the 1984 Sikh Massacre and the immigrants who made New Zealand home

Released at 4:07 pm on 30 June 2025

Photo: RNZ

New documentary series 1984 takes a closer look at the 1984 anti-Sikh riots, also known as the 1984 Sikh Massacre and the journey of several members of the Sikh community who immigrated to New Zealand to rebuild their lives after facing enormous tragedy.

For years there was tension between the Indian Government and those wanting more rights for the State of Punjab. Prime Minister Indira Gandhi's assassination by her Sikh bodyguards became a turning point in India's history. What followed was three days of brutal targeting and killing of Sikhs in Delhi and beyond.

Each episode engages with individuals who were directly involved, offering a firsthand portrayal of their experience and what the repercussions of this tragic event has had on the Sikh community. The aftermath meant that many no longer felt safe within India and sought asylum around the world.

RNZ’s Chief Content Officer Megan Whelan says that 1984 is the latest history series to be added to RNZ’s new video hub, following Farewell Guangdong which was released earlier this year.

“1984 collects deeply personal stories from Sikh migrants who came to Aotearoa following the disturbing events in India that completely changed their lives.”

Watch the series on rnz.co.nz/video. Made by Fire Fire Productions with support from NZ On Air.