Bhangra

Bhangra and its music originated from farmers in Punjab where agriculture is the prime profession. The songs are those that the men would sing while tending to their fields, sowing the seeds and harvesting crops. Traditional Bhangra movements reflect the many aspects of tending to the land and growing crops. Since agricultural work was done mainly by the men and young boys, the dance steps are boisterous and manly. The version performed by women is called Giddha.

What began as music that described village life while working in the fields has eventually become a part of almost every occasion celebrated in Punjab, be it a wedding or a New Year. Bhangra has also become synonymous with the celebrations of Baisakhi. In the villages, people gather in bright colourful clothes with large drums known as dhols and circle round and round doing the Bhangra. Irrespective of any barriers, people of all social classes perform Bhangra together.

A lively folk music and dance once performed at harvest time, Bhangra now fully represents the culture of the Punjab region and the robust character of its people.