Much-awaited crime thriller Kanneda was released on JioHotstar on March 21, 2025. Ever since its release, Kanneda has become the talking point among fans on social media as it portrays a tale of 'two Canada'. Directed by Chandan Arora, Kanneda features Punjabi singer & actor Parmish Verma who plays the character of Nimma Chahal, Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub, Ranvir Shorey, Arunoday Singh, Aadar Malik, Jasmin Bajwa, and more in the leading roles. Kanneda is basically a mispronunciation generally associated with Punjab-origin immigrants living in Canada. Kanneda revolves around Punjab-origin immigrant Nimma Chahal who is an aspiring rapper but gets entangled in the world of crime and becomes part of a drug syndicate. Since the story of the series resembles to reality, fans may dig deep into Kanneda Real Story or Kanneda True Story. Below is all you need to know about JioHotstar's Kanneda Real Story or Kanneda True Story-
Is Kanneda's Nimma Chahal based on a real-life gangster?
Parmish Verma portrays Nirmal ‘Nimma’ Chahal in the JioHotstar web series Kanneda. Nimma is a Punjabi immigrant in 1990s Vancouver who transitions from a street performer to a rising rap artist, eventually becoming entangled in the criminal underworld. This narrative explores themes of ambition, cultural assimilation, and the challenges faced by immigrants.
While Kanneda draws inspiration from the real-life experiences of Punjabi immigrants in Canada, Nirmal Chahal is a fictional character created to encapsulate the struggles and aspirations of many individuals from that era. The series does not depict the life of any specific real-life drug peddler or rapper but instead offers a composite portrayal reflecting broader societal issues.
Therefore, Nirmal ‘Nimma’ Chahal is not based on a real person but serves as a fictional representation of the complex experiences faced by Punjabi immigrants in Canada during the 1980s and 1990s.
As a result, True Scoop tried to dig more into Punjab-origin gangsters who once operated in Canada. Below is what you should know-
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Brothers Keepers: This gang has been implicated in numerous violent incidents and drug-related activities across Canada. Their operations have contributed significantly to gang violence in regions like British Columbia.
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Dhak Gang: Led by Gurmit Singh Dhak until his death in 2010, this group was heavily involved in drug trafficking and was central to gang conflicts in the Vancouver area.
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Dosanjh Brothers: Ranjit and Jimsher Dosanjh were key figures in organized crime during the late 20th century, with activities spanning drug trafficking and violent confrontations with rival gangs.
Gang-related violence in Canada that are linked to Punjabi immigrants
- Sukhdool Singh Gill’s Death: In September 2023, Sukhdool Singh Gill, also known as Sukha Duneke, was shot dead in Winnipeg. He was associated with the Davinder Bambiha gang, and his death is believed to be the result of inter-gang rivalries.
- Bindy Johal’s Assassination: A prominent figure in the Indo-Canadian underworld, Bindy Johal was fatally shot in 1998. His criminal activities and subsequent death highlighted the violent nature of gang conflicts during that period.
- The assassination of Hardeep Singh Nijjar- Hardeep Singh Nijjar's assassination is among the most talked about in recent times as it almost ended the diplomatic relationship between Canada and India. While Canada accused India of using Gangster Lawrence Bishnoi to assassinate him, India has maintained its stance it will be ready to take action if the Canadian government provides them any proof of its claim. Categorically, Delhi has denied its involvement in the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar who was Most Wanted in India.