Check out this beautiful Bhangra dancing in Kelowna

It’s a Sunday evening at the Kelowna Bhangra Academy in Rutland.

Dozens of youngsters have gathered for their weekly sessions under the guidance of instructor, Tanvir Marwaha, 17.

Along with the steps, kicks, arm movements and transitions, there’s one vital aspect that she drums into her students – smile!

“Bhangra is special because you smile, you enjoy when you’re doing it,” Marwaha said during a break in a performance the class put on specially for Kelowna10 for Diwali week. “It’s a joyful dance, so that’s the best part of it.”

Forty students, from five years of age up to 18 take part in classes which reflect the culture and tradition of the Punjabi folk dance that has become almost universal in the last thirty years. Pop culture and DJing have propelled Bhangra into a far more mainstream market across the globe with as many women as men now taking part.

And the physical activity is just as important.

“It’s a great exercise,” Marwaha explained. “You move your arms, your legs, a full body workout that’s for sure.”

For academy manager Ranvir Singh, it’s a joy to see the kids delving into the dance which has its origins in agriculture when farmers celebrated a good harvest and income.

“Everyone loves Bhangra. The kids love to dance, and they dance well,” Singh said as he watched the dancers, who like him, were in their traditional attire.

“The costumes they’re wearing, it’s special for them and for the culture. It shows how the culture is really colourful and shiny.”

The Kelowna Bhangra Academy has a two-week winter camp in December and then hosts a showcase event early in 2024.

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