SIMPLY BHANGRA
Bhangra means a person intoxicated with joy!
Bhangra is one of the most vibrant, energetic, colourful, lively and explosive forms of dance today. It emerged from the Punjab region of India, hundreds of years ago. Since then, Bhangra culture has developed dramatically and this has prompted its massive increase in popularity.
Bhangra is, undeniably, a very rich art form, originating from
the folk traditions, warriors and legends of the Punjab. The sparkling colours, beats and rhythms of Bhangra compel
everyone to tap their feet in time to the music; hence the expression, ‘Pump up the Bhangra!’
Over the past few years Bhangra dance and music have changed dramatically.
Bhangra folk dance was, until fairly recently, performed at only a limited number of festivals. However, thanks to the introduction of Bhangra dance competitions in Punjab universities, both the ability and the agility of the dancers has increased and, consequently, the rhythm of the music has become more energetic. It is this fast pace that has heightened the excitement surrounding Bhangra music and has increased its popularity.
Bhangra culture is often evident at festivals, melas, clubs, and concerts, but it is at Punjabi Weddings that it plays an especially important role. Celebration is central to Bhangra and most folk and new songs revolve around wedding stories. Traditionally, friends and family dance the groom to the bride’s home before the ceremony, accompanied by Dhol players.
Furthermore, many ceremonies now feature a professional dance performance as an integral part of the celebrations.
Bhangra dance and music have had a strong influence on each other’s development. They share in each other’s success and contribute to each other’s popularity. Folk music accompanying live dance will often be taken by music producers for recording by professional singers; and vice versa: Bhangra singers accompanying live dance sometimes use professionally recorded music to use in performance.
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