The Bhangra – a colorful, high intensity Punjabi folk dance that is captivating enough to charm even the most ardent wallflowers into busting some moves; and who does it better than our very own UTP Bhangra team – Gajjdi Jawani. The group’s name literally translates to ‘roaring youth’, which is what they are all about. With their limitless energy and lively performances, they have managed to grab two 1st place finishes, at Dhiirathi Nakshatra (2011) and HELP: Artistry in Rhythm (2012). They have also managed to secure 3rd place in UTP’s FESCO (2012) as well as perform at numerous events including Tapestry of Colours. Gajjdi Jawani is currently led by the remarkable Harnamdav Singh and lovely assistant manager Harvin Kaur, both of whom are pursuing their respective Master's degrees at UTP.
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| In the early days, prior to gaining recognition from UTP. |
The road to success is never an easy one (engineering students can probably relate), and like all blooming performance groups, the team had their fair share of hardships and disappointments. At their inception in 2006, they faced limited funds and publicity. Due to the fact that they were self-sponsored, the group members had to contribute money from their own pockets to sustain themselves. Unfortunately for them, they could not accumulate sufficient funds to cover the costs of the expensive costumes and props needed for their performances. Publicity for the group was gained solely through their well-rehearsed performances. Despite all the setbacks and struggles in retaining their already limited members, they still managed to practice between 2-3 hours a day and pull off their trademark lively performances whenever required. In 2010, the hard work and dedication of the group’s passionate members was finally recognized by UTP (about time) and they were officially listed as a performing arts group.
The official status they procured in 2010 certainly opened new doors for Gajjdi Jawani. Ever since receiving UTP’s recognition and support, Gajjdi Jawani has slowly been climbing its way up to becoming one of the best young Bhangra groups in Malaysia. With the recent addition of 15 members in 2012, including 2 Mozambicans and 2 Malays, the group has become more racially diverse and versatile. I’ve always been curious as to the reasons why people choose certain dance styles over others, so I questioned the Mozambican, Francisco, (sure, pick on the kid that stands out) as to why he joined the Bhangra team. He simply smiled and said “I really like the catchy music and I love dancing to the fast rhythm”. Although the members of the team had various reasons for wanting to dance the Bhangra, they all concluded that it was the upbeat music that caught their attention, or as one of them specifically put it, “It has a beat that could get the world dancing”. One of the more interesting reasons that was pointed out to me is that the Bhangra, due to its energetic dance moves, makes you sweat profusely, making it an ideal cardio workout. Couple that with Malaysia’s beautiful weather (note sarcasm), and it could probably make your sweat, sweat.
For those that are interested in being a part of Gajjdi Jawani, you may do so by attending their audition that is held once every semester. As for the criteria to make it through the auditions, Harnamdav reassures us that “As long as you are committed and passionate to learn, then you are more than welcome to be a part of our group”. So if you are like me (pray not) – that is to say the Rebecca Black of the dancing world, then there is still a chance for you to learn and be part of something much bigger than yourself. Such is the case of Dharamraj Bhambri, who was initially a beginner to Bhangra dancing, but managed to pull off his first major performance spectacularly during the ICN (International Culture Night). Dharamraj, now fondly known as ‘Bhambri’ to his fellow dancers, believes that the supportive environment within the group makes it so easy for new members to improve and retain their self-confidence. Gajjdi Jawani functions as a single body and does not put emphasis on individuals during their performances. This extends to off the stage as well, as they are widely known to go out as a group to numerous events and outings, including playing squash and trips to Cameron Highlands.
Gajjdi Jawani, already a household name here on campus, still has quite a way to go in achieving their goals of being internationally recognized as well as competing in international competitions. To the group however, it is the joy gained from the ride that counts. Bhangra for them is not solely a competitive art form but rather an expression of their inner self through body movements. With that being said, we wish the UTP Bhangra team, Gajjdi Jawani, all the best in their future endeavors. They've done us proud on many occasions, and we'll be rooting for them all the way. May their infectious beats be heard all over the country, and hopefully one day, to the world.
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| New recruits during their sensational first performance at ICN recently. |
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| Bhangra ladies. |
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