A closer look into clubs on campus: Geneseo Bhangra

Photo courtesy of Arts & Entertainment Editor Sarah Bhasin

After countless hours of practice throughout the semester, students are able to showcase their hard work through a variety of different performances.

When browsing SUNY Geneseo’s list of clubs and organizations, students may feel overwhelmed by the large selection. It may be daunting to see hundreds of clubs that present different experiences and benefits, but at the very least, a large array of choices means there is at least one fitting club for every student. 

Gajjda Bhangra, more recently known as Geneseo Bhangra, is a club for students who enjoy and express themselves through dance. Although inspired by a traditional folk dance that originates in the Punjabi region of South Asia, Geneseo Bhangra welcomes students of all cultures and dance experience levels. 

Unlike classes and additional obligations, Geneseo Bhangra is a time for students to relieve stress. Its fast-paced and energetic dance style is a fun way to collaborate with peers and move the body after a day of studying. 

Geneseo Bhangra offers many intercultural experiences for students unfamiliar with South Asian culture. Practice times involve learning authentic Bhangra dance moves and specific techniques common to the style. Those both familiar and unfamiliar with Bhangra are welcome and encouraged in the space. 

Students will learn how to dance with a Sapp (also known as Chhikka), a Punjabi percussion instrument known for its unique clapping sound. Historically, these instruments were used to scare away crows: the loud noise is closely attributed to thunder. The claps of these props enhance the beat of the music and add energy to an already dynamic routine. 

Another prop commonly used in Geneseo Bhangra is Daangs— long sticks with a history of assisting Punjabi farmers when walking the field. These props are often swayed and twirled by dancers, a movement both impressive and deceptively simple to learn. 

Along with props, students learn to dance as a Jodi, or pair, of dancers; because these dancers need to be in sync, students can expect to rehearse and practice the same routine for multiple weeks! Every member is encouraged to give input on how the dancers and team can improve and perform the routine to its full potential. 

As members learn dance routines, they can perform on and off-campus events to spread entertainment and Punjabi culture throughout the community. Students typically get to wear elegant costumes to add authenticity to the performance. Geneseo Bhangra also competes in an annual dance competition hosted by RIT Velocity at Rochester Institute of Technology. 

By advancing their performance and dance abilities, students in Geneseo Bhangra gain the knowledge to choreograph their moves and routines, learn new ways to express themselves, and bond with their teammates along their journey. 

Geneseo Bhangra serves as both a dance and social outlet for students; the club facilitates a judgment-free environment and hosts many team-building activities and events throughout the semester.

Those interested in joining Geneseo Bhangra should visit their table during the Spring club fair at the beginning of next semester to learn more about the club and how to join. Geneseo Bhangra typically meets from 8:00 pm to 10:00 pm on Monday and Wednesday, and on Sunday from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm in the Schrader Dance Studio. Consider joining to be part of its unique and fulfilling experience and the opportunity to make lifelong friends among fellow members!