Brampton’s literary scene has been electrified by Nigerian author Onyeka Nwelue’s latest novel, How to Speak Punjabi in Brampton.
The book, which delves into the heart of Brampton’s vibrant Punjabi community, has caught the attention of none other than Mayor Patrick Brown, who honoured Nwelue with an official certificate of recognition at a recent launch event.
The novel’s protagonist, Balminder Jagvir Singh, a hospitality lecturer at Hanson College, finds his life turned upside down when his Sikh parents arrive in Canada with an arranged bride in tow. The catch? None of them speak English, setting the stage for a series of comical and poignant misadventures that shine a light on the challenges of cultural integration and identity.
Mayor Brown, impressed by Nwelue’s fresh take on Brampton’s multicultural tapestry, praised the author’s contribution to the city’s literary landscape. “This novel offers a unique perspective on our diverse community,” Brown stated during the ceremony at ‘A Different Booklist’ Bookshop on Bathurst Street, Toronto. “It’s a testament to the rich cultural mosaic that defines Brampton.”
The recognition from City Hall has propelled How to Speak Punjabi in Brampton into the spotlight, with talks of a film adaptation already underway. Literary critics and readers alike are buzzing about the book’s raw portrayal of the Punjabi experience in one of Canada’s most diverse cities.
But Nwelue’s creative endeavours don’t stop at the written word. His latest film, The Other Side of History, a biopic about Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu, screened at the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF). Set around the period before the Civil War. It places focus on his personal life and challenges viewers to rethink their opinion on such notable Nigerians like Wole Soyinka, Chinua Achebe, Christopher Okigbo, Philip Effiong and JP Clark.
As Brampton continues to embrace its multicultural identity, Nwelue’s work stands as a bridge between communities, fostering understanding and celebrating diversity through the power of storytelling.
- Featured image: Onyeka Nwelue with Patrick Brown
