Punjab is known for its spirit and vibrancy. Bhangra is a form of folk dance. Punjabi folk dances are very spirited and full of energy just the way Punjabi people are. Punjabi dances are also quite elementary and sans any sophistication. Bhangra does not follow any specific rules. Bhangra can be defined in a much simpler term of expression of joy using physical movements.
The basic element of folk dances is there is no preparation required in terms of steps, dress or movements. It’s just spontaneous and spirited. Bhangra dance gives dancer the freedom to dance the way he wants to. There is no synchronization required. The dancer is free is express himself using any gestures.
Bhangra is basically the men’s dance with drum being the most essential instrument of it. In terms of Punjabi dances, Bhangra is exclusively performed by men whereas women perform in a dance form called ‘Giddha’. It would not amount to exaggeration to say that bhangra is the favorite dance of the Punjabis. It is an ancient dance form that requires tremendous amount of stamina and grit. The origin of Bhangra can be traced back to harvesting and fertility rites.
The occasion of Baisakhi witnesses performance of Bhangra dances all over the Punjab. Baisakhi represents completion of harvesting season. Bhangra is also performed on every social occasion and sometimes without any occasion. Bhangra is performed in sync with dhol or drum and rhythmic clapping. The chants of ‘Balle, Balle’ and ‘Hoy, Hoy’ by the dancers accompanies the rhythm. Tempo plays a major part in Bhangra.
Bhangra is basically a secular dance. Bhangra does not require any form of particular dresses but usually dancers use loose shirts and long cloth tahmats. Waist coats are also an important part of dancers’ dresses. In Bhangra, dancers stand in a circle around the drummer who stands in the middle. Initial slow movements of feet turn to rhythmic gyration of body. Bhangra also has lyrics called as ‘Boli’ in local dialect. However, Bhangra takes a different form when it is displayed on big screen. Bhangra in villages have nothing to do with sophistication. Its all about just joy and happiness.