Bhangra Fusion

Bhangra Fusion

Definition of Bhangra
Pronunciation: bhan . gra
n.

• A Punjabi dance music traditionally performed during harvest festivals and weddings, characterized by the beating of a large, two-headed drum.
• A popular style of music combining traditional bhangra drumming with modern Western instruments and rhythms.

Bhangra is a lively form of folk music and dance that originates from Punjab. People traditionally performed Bhangra when celebrating the harvest. During Bhangra, people sing Punjabi Boliyaan lyrics, at least one person plays the the dhol drum, and other people may play the flute, dholak drum, or other musical instruments. While Bhangra began as a part of harvest festival celebrations, it eventually became a part of such diverse occasions as weddings and New Year celebrations. Moreover, during the last thirty years, Bhangra has enjoyed a surge in popularity worldwide, both in traditional form and as a fusion with genres such as hip-hop, house, and reggae.
Bhangra Fusion is an annual professional competition where teams compete against one another, demonstrating a fusion of culture and creativity. This year marks the tenth competition since Bhangra Fusion One back in 2000.
Bhangra Fusion Ten will take place on March 28, 2009 at the Fillmore Detroit (formerly known as the State Theatre) in Detroit Michigan.