Punjab’s Folk and Sufi Traditions at Bharat Parv 2026

punjab/">Punjab’s rich musical and spiritual legacy will take centre stage at Bharat Parv 2026, to be held at the historic Red Fort in New Delhi. On 31 January 2026, audiences will witness a vibrant cultural showcase through performances by the Punjabi Folk Orchestra and the spiritually charged Qalandri Dhamal. Together, these presentations will reflect the depth, diversity, and continuity of Punjab’s folk and Sufi traditions.

Punjabi Folk Orchestra: Structured Folk Expression

The Punjabi Folk Orchestra is a distinctive musical ensemble developed around traditional folk instruments of Punjab. Instruments such as dhol, dholki, taal-koze, tansari, flute, nagara, chimta, sap, kara, vanjli, and others are brought together in a single, coordinated performance format. Folk melodies, traditionally performed solo or in small groups, have been carefully composed and arranged to suit an orchestral setting while retaining their authentic sound and rhythm.

Learning, Teamwork, and Cultural Preservation

The orchestra is performed by twelve students, each assigned a specific instrumental role. Their performance reflects discipline, teamwork, and a deep understanding of Punjabi folk idioms. Beyond performance, the initiative serves as an educational platform, offering hands-on exposure to ensemble coordination and folk orchestration. It also plays a key role in preserving traditional music forms by presenting them in a contemporary yet respectful format suitable for large audiences.

Qalandri Dhamal: Sufi Devotion in Motion

Adding a spiritual dimension to the evening is Qalandri Dhamal, a traditional Sufi folk dance of Punjab and Sindh. The dance is closely associated with the shrine of Lal Shahbaz Qalandar and expresses devotion, love, and surrender to the divine. Performed to powerful rhythms created by instruments like dhol, ghadyal, sorna, shankh, and tumba, the dance is accompanied by devotional chants such as “Damadam Mast Qalandar.”

Important Facts for Exams

• Bharat Parv is an annual cultural festival organised in New Delhi to showcase India’s diverse traditions.
• Punjabi folk music relies heavily on percussion instruments, with dhol being the most prominent.
• Qalandri Dhamal is linked to Sufi practices and promotes ideas of devotion and spiritual equality.
• Lal Shahbaz Qalandar was a 13th-century Sufi saint revered across religious communities.

Message of Unity and Cultural Harmony

Qalandri Dhamal features free-flowing movements, spinning, stomping, and rhythmic clapping, often performed barefoot with ghungroos symbolising humility. It represents spiritual freedom, unity, and love, cutting across caste, religion, and social divisions. Combined with the Punjabi Folk Orchestra, the performances at Bharat Parv 2026 will offer an immersive experience that celebrates Punjab’s musical brilliance and its enduring message of communal harmony.