Bhangra facts for kids
Bhangra is a very energetic and fun folk dance. It started a long time ago in the Punjab region, an area now divided between India and Pakistan. Farmers from all different backgrounds, including Sikhs, Muslims, and Hindus, created this dance. They used Bhangra to celebrate the exciting time when the harvest season arrived.
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What is Bhangra?
Bhangra is more than just a dance; it is a celebration of life and the hard work of farmers. The dance involves lots of jumping, kicking, and spinning. Dancers often use colorful clothes and props. The music is usually fast-paced and features traditional instruments like the dhol drum.
Where Did Bhangra Come From?
The roots of Bhangra are deep in the farming communities of Punjab. Farmers would dance and sing to show their happiness and thankfulness for a good harvest. It was a way to relax and have fun after working hard in the fields. Over time, Bhangra became a popular part of many festivals and celebrations.
Bhangra Around the World
Bhangra has traveled far beyond its original home. It has become very popular in many countries, especially where people from Punjab have moved. This dance style has even influenced pop music and dance forms around the globe.
Bhangra in Britain
In the 1980s, Bhangra music became a big hit in Britain. Even though Bhangra artists did not always make it into the Top 40 music charts, they sold many cassettes. Some artists sold over 30,000 cassettes every week! This showed how much people loved the music.
Bhangra in Canada
Bhangra is also very popular in Canada. A famous singer named Jazzy B sold more than 55,000 copies of his third album, Folk and Funky. This made him one of the best-selling Punjabi folk artists in the world. Many Bhangra dance groups and competitions are held in Canada.
What Do Bhangra Dancers Wear?
Bhangra dancers wear special, colorful outfits that make the performance even more exciting. Each part of the costume has a name and a purpose:
- Turla or torla: This is a decoration worn on the turban.
- Pag: This is a special turban. It is a sign of pride and honor in Punjab. It is tied differently from everyday turbans.
- Kurta: This is a loose silk shirt. It usually has about four buttons and is decorated with embroidered patterns.
- Lungi or chadar: This is a loose cloth tied around the dancer's waist. It allows for easy movement.
- Jugi: This is a waistcoat, which is a vest, worn without buttons.
- Rumāl: These are small scarves. Dancers tie them onto their fingers.
Images for kids
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Bhangra dancers in Punjab, India.
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Bhangra Performance
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North American Live Bhangra Team named Johr Jawani Da
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Bhangra
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Bhangra Performance
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A group of students performing Bhangra (dance) (India)
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Punjabi Bhangra Drummer (Jhelum, Punjab (Pakistan))
