The origins of bhangra

Key learning points

1. Bhangra is a traditional Punjabi dance and form of music that has its roots in farming communities of the Punjab.
2. In the 20th century it evolved into a new style of music, which has distinct characteristics.
3. One distinct feature is a rhythm that is referred to as 'chaal' (meaning 'movement' in Punjabi).
4. Chaal is a rhythm in 4/4, with each beat divided in three. It emphasises beat one and four.
5. Typically chaal is played on a two-headed drum called a dhol, or sometimes a smaller version called a dholak.

Keywords

• Punjabi - The Punjab is an area that includes a part of India and Pakistan. People from here are called Punjabi, and many of them speak the Punjabi language.

• Bhangra - Bhangra is a traditional Punjabi folk dance and type of music. In the late-20th century it developed into a new, modern style of music.

• Chaal - Chaal (meaning 'movement' in Punjabi) is the name commonly given to a particular distinctive rhythm played on the dhol in modern bhangra.

• Dhol - A dhol is the key instrument of bhangra - a two-headed drum that plays the chaal.

Common misconception