Bhangra

Origins and Historical Context

Bhangra is a type of music and dance that originated in the Punjab region of North-west India.
Traditionally, Bhangra was performed to celebrate the harvest season.
It has experienced significant evolution and has incorporated diverse influences over time, especially from Western music genres like pop and hip-hop.

Musical Features

Bhangra music often features a strong dhol drum rhythm, which is typical of its regional origins.
The genre also regularly incorporates the use of other traditional Indian instruments such as the tumbi, a high pitched, single string instrument.
Vocals in Bhangra music can range from traditional Punjabi folk tunes to Western-style rap.
The structure of Bhangra songs often alternates between verses and choruses, a characteristic taken from Western pop music.

Performance and Dance

The Bhangra dance is energetic and vibrant, involving high jumps, shoulder movements and coordinated group formations.
Dance is a vital part of Bhangra and is often performed in brightly coloured traditional attire.
The dance moves often mimic farming activities to pay homage to Bhangra’s agricultural roots.

Modern Bhangra

Bhangra has gained worldwide popularity and has been incorporated into popular Western music.
Artists like Jay-Z, Missy Elliott and Dr. Dre have used elements of Bhangra in their songs, adding to the genre’s global reach.
In the UK, the genre has influenced British Asian artists who have further developed ‘UK Bhangra’, a sub-genre that blends Bhangra with various forms of Western music.

Bhangra’s Significance

Bhangra serves as a strong connection to Punjabi culture for diaspora communities, particularly in the UK, Canada and the USA.
It fosters a sense of community and cultural identity, especially during festivals and celebrations.
Bhangra also promotes physical fitness due to its energetic dance routines.