India, a land of diverse cultures and deep-rooted history, endured centuries of foreign rule, with the British Empire leaving one of the most profound impacts. Behind the grandeur and tales of progress lies a grim reality. Groundbreaking research by economic anthropologist Jason Hickel and co-author Dylan Sullivan, published in World Development, reveals that British colonialism resulted in 165 million excess deaths in India between 1880 and 1920—surpassing the combined death toll of both World Wars.

The British Empire not only claimed lives but also systematically drained India’s wealth. Prominent economist Utsa Patnaik estimates that $45 trillion was extracted over nearly two centuries, leaving the nation economically crippled. Human-made famines, like the Bengal Famine of 1943, further deepened the suffering, with millions dying due to policies set by Winston Churchill’s wartime cabinet.

This video delves into the dark history of British colonialism, revealing the devastating impact on India’s people and economy. Figures like Indian politician Shashi Tharoor have extensively documented these atrocities, comparing Churchill’s actions to some of history’s most notorious figures.

As India continues to rise, it faces the challenge of reconciling with its past while forging a bright future. Join us as we explore this painful yet important chapter in India’s history.