Originating in the Punjab region of India, Bhangra is a vibrant and energetic folk dance known for its lively rhythms, colourful costumes, and expressive body language. For North-Indians, Bhangra is more than just a dance; it is a cultural celebration of joy, happiness and a part of life. One enthusiastic young Bhangra performer, Avi Aulakh, is on a mission to share this infectious energy with the Christchurch community, nurturing the Bhangra culture for future generations.
At just 17 years old, Aulakh is already a well-known figure in the Christchurch community for his Bhangra prowess. He is also the founder of the NZ Bhangra Academy, which offers free Bhangra classes to students of all ages.
Born in India, Aulakh moved to New Zealand 15 years ago with his parents and is currently studying in Year 12 at Christchurch Boys High School.
So, what got him interested in Bhangra? Aulakh explains, “My Mom regularly organises cultural events, and I have been helping her. I started performing Bhangra from my early childhood at these events.”
Aulakh’s Bhangra journey began by watching videos. “I was mesmerised by the energy and the colourful dresses the performers wore, and I would repeat the steps in my room,” he recalls.
When Aulakh was 15 years old, he started teaching Bhangra to others. He wanted to share his love for the dance with others and help them experience the same joy he felt when he performed.
“My Mom is my inspiration and her NGO ‘The Women’s Helping Hand Trust NZ’ offers free life skill Classes, workshops and cultural events for the community. She motivated me to offer free Bhangra classes for the community,” he says.
Aulakh’s NZ Bhangra Academy has been a huge success. He currently has over 100 students enrolled in his classes, which he teaches on Saturdays and Thursdays in Christchurch and Rolleston. His classes are free to attend, and he is passionate about making Bhangra accessible to everyone.
“I want to share my love of bhangra with the world,” Aulakh said. “I believe that bhangra is a powerful force for good, and I want to use my classes to spread its message of joy and happiness.”
Aulakh’s classes have had a positive impact on many of his students. Many have told him that they physically feel more energetic and have a better understanding and appreciation of their culture after taking his classes.
“Bhangra is more than just a fun and energetic dance,” says Aulakh. “It’s also a great way to reduce stress, improve teamwork, social skills, and boost confidence. It also help people with Punjabi or Indian heritage to connect with their culture.”
Aulakh’s students come from a variety of backgrounds, but they are all united by their love of Bhangra. His classes are more than just dance lessons; they are a place where students can come together to learn about their culture, make friends, and have fun.
Aulakh and his students at NZ Bhangra Academy have been spreading the joy of Bhangra at countless events in Christchurch and neighbouring regions, including the International Women’s Cultural Celebration, Christchurch Multicultural Festival 2023, Selwyn CulturalFest 23, Meet and Greet of Hon. Minister of India, Selwyn Teeyan, Maori Cultural Day, Ardour Cultural Convergence Day at Riverside Market, and the upcoming event on October 21st - Durga Pooja among others.
Aulakh has personally received numerous awards for his contributions to the community. Recently, he was honoured with the Young Achiever Award (Category Winner) and the Gold Award at the Selwyn Awards 2023. He has earned many awards and achievements in school, including Fine Young Man Gold Recipient, Peer Support Leader, and Dean’s House Leader (Year 12 House Leader).
One of the biggest challenges that Aulakh has faced is juggling his studies with his Bhangra classes. “It is sometimes hard adjusting Year 12 studies and conducting these free volunteer classes for all,” says Aulakh. “Being a student of Year 12, where exams are critical, running these weekly classes multiple times a week has been a challenge. However, it is my passion, and my time management skills come in handy in overcoming this challenge.”
Aulakh's parents, Gurvinder Singh and Parminder Kaur, are proud of his achievements. “We are particularly proud when he got recognised outside the Indian community and got invited to perform in wider community events,” Kaur said.
Aulakh's passion for Bhangra is evident in his determination to make his parents and community proud. His words, "I am focused on following my passion and making my parents and my community proud through my achievements," echo the spirit of Bhangra, which is a dance that celebrates life, community, and cultural heritage.
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