Punjab’s musical and spiritual heritage will be showcased at Bharat Parv 2026 at the Red Fort, New Delhi, through performances of the Punjabi Folk Orchestra and Qalandri Dhamal on 31 January 2026. The event will present traditional Punjabi folk music in an orchestral form and show a Sufi devotional dance rooted in the cultural traditions of Punjab and Sindh.
Punjabi Folk Orchestra
The Punjabi Folk Orchestra is a structured ensemble built around traditional instruments such as Dhol, Dholki, Taal-Koze, Tansari, Flute, Nagara, Chimta, Sap, Kara and Vanjli. It combines rhythmic, melodic and percussive sounds into one coordinated performance. Traditional folk tunes are arranged for group presentation while retaining their original character.
Student Participation and Training
The orchestra will be performed by twelve students, each assigned a specific instrumental role. The presentation reflects teamwork, discipline and coordination. It also gives students practical exposure to folk orchestration and ensemble performance. Such initiatives help preserve folk traditions while creating a trained new generation of performers.
Qalandri Dhamal Tradition
Qalandri Dhamal is a devotional Sufi folk dance associated with Sehwan Sharif and the shrine of Lal Shahbaz Qalandar. It expresses love, surrender and spiritual devotion. The performance uses dhol, ghadyal, sorna, shankh and tumba, along with clapping and chants such as Damadam Mast Qalandar.
Cultural and Spiritual Significance
The dance is marked by spinning, stomping and swaying movements, often performed barefoot with ghungroos. It symbolises humility, spiritual freedom and unity. Together, the orchestra and dance will present a vivid expression of Punjab’s folk identity and its message of peace and communal harmony.
Last Modified: April 27, 2026