Join local Bhangra experts Gairet Nagra and Maihtab Malhi as they detail the history of the celebratory dances of Bhangra and Giddha, demonstrate and teach typical steps, explain costumes and props, and show performances by college students and the local Rochester Jawani group.

In this presentation, learn some moves of these traditional folk dances of Punjab, a northern state in India. These energetic dances feature performers in vibrant costumes executing synchronized, choreographed steps that require tremendous athleticism. The dancers move to the beat of the dhol, a two-sided drum, and sing poetry verses, called boliyan. Originating as part of the spring harvest celebration of Baisakhi, the dances feature agricultural themes.

Bhangra was traditionally a dance for men but is now performed by men and women. Giddha remains a dance performed by women and is both energetic and graceful. Originating from the traditional ring dance, Giddha features a circle of dancers clad in colorful costumes and bright jewelry as they clap rhythmically and sing songs of women’s lives.

Modern versions of Bhangra are popular around the world and incorporate elements of Western pop, rock, and hip-hop. A Bhangra team from Cornell University was voted into the 2014 America’s Got Talent competition after wowing viewers of The Today Show. Although the team was eliminated after the quarterfinals, the exposure on national television ushered in a new wave of interest.

Registration is required for this free program which takes place via Zoom.  The link will be emailed to you the day of the program.

Come experience India and journey through the exhibit, Punjab: Land of Five Rivers at the Central Library, 115 South Avenue, Rochester, NY.

Exhibit on view until March 5, 2022.