The Rise of Indian Folk Dance in Europe: Why Bhangra & Garba Are Everywhere Now
There’s a moment I keep seeing across Europe: a DJ drops a Punjabi dhol beat, and suddenly the crowd is moving in Bhangra steps they’ve never learned. Or a Garba circle slowly grows, moving like one heartbeat. After years of social isolation during the COVID‑19 pandemic, people are craving connection—and Indian folk dance delivers. Bhangra, Garba, and other folk styles aren’t just fun—they’re cultural experiences that bring Europe together in rhythm, joy, and community.
There’s a moment I keep seeing across Europe.
A DJ drops a Punjabi dhol beat at a festival, and suddenly the entire room lights up. Strangers lock eyes, shoulders bounce, and before anyone realises what’s happening… they’re doing Bhangra steps they’ve never been taught.
Or it’s Garba season, and a circle begins to form—slow at first, then wider and wider until it feels like one heartbeat moving in rhythm.
It’s in these unexpected, electric moments that you can feel it:
Indian folk dance has arrived in Europe. And it’s not a trend—it’s a movement.
Why Europe Is Falling in Love With Folk Dance
1. Folk dance feels communal in a way Europe craves.
Folk dance feels communal in a way Europe craves. People are drawn to experiences that feel real, where connection happens naturally. Garba circles, Bhangra lines, group formations… they bring people together without needing words.
2. The music is irresistible.
Gujarati beats. The thunder of Punjabi dhol.
Even if you don’t know the steps, your body knows what to do.
Folk music speaks the universal language of rhythm—simple, honest, infectious.
3. It’s fitness disguised as celebration.
People leave a Bhangra workshop drenched, laughing, asking “Why am I so happy and so exhausted?”
Because folk dance was never meant for the stage first.
It was meant for real people with real lives celebrating real moments.
My Journey With Folk Dance
I didn’t learn folk casually.
I completed a folk dance diploma and have been teaching styles like Bhangra, Garba, and Rajasthani folk for many years.
Growing up in India, folk wasn’t a “special class.”
It was life.
Festivals, neighbourhood gatherings, school events… these rhythms raised me.
That lived experience shapes how I teach at ABC a Bollywood Company:
authentic technique, musical understanding, and a sense of community in every session.
How Folk Dance Is Showing Up Across Europe
Festivals across Europe now invite Bhangra and Garba performances.
Workshops dedicated to folk styles draw students from different countries.
Dancers are seeking authentic folk rather than just film-style Bollywood.
The demand is genuine—and growing rapidly.
Special Announcement: Join Our Winter Intensive
If you’re ready to dive deep and connect with the real heart of Indian folk dance, join us in Ghent for the Indian Dance Winter Intensive 2026 from 30 January to 1 February 2026, at Shoonya Dance Centre (Stapelplein 41, Gent). Shoonya Dance Centre
Here’s what’s on the plan:
30 Jan (Fri) 18:30–21:30 → Bhangra & Jhoomar Intensive – High-energy folk from Punjab. Shoonya Dance Centre
31 Jan (Sat) 10:00–13:00 → Semi-Classical Intensive – Storytelling through Kathak-inspired movement. Shoonya Dance Centre
31 Jan (Sat) 14:00–16:00 → Lavani Intensive – Vibrant folk dance from Maharashtra. Shoonya Dance Centre
1 Feb (Sun) 10:00–12:00 → Ghoomar Intensive – Traditional Rajasthani dance with elegant spins. Shoonya Dance Centre
1 Feb (Sun) 13:00–15:00 → Chari Intensive – Folk from Rajasthan featuring graceful balancing of pots. Shoonya Dance Centre
Beginners and experienced dancers welcome. Spots are limited. Register soon!
How You Can Start Your Folk Dance Journey
Attend a beginner-friendly Bhangra or Garba workshop.
Wear something comfortable (let your energy move).
Learn from trained folk instructors (technique shapes freedom).
Explore local festivals celebrating Indian culture.
Consider joining our Winter Intensive in Ghent for a full immersion.
One Question for You
Which folk style calls you more: Bhangra or Garba?
And why does it tug at you?
Tell me—your answer might just be the spark for your next dance journey.
Gent India Dans Festival
Join the Gent India Dans Festival 2025 in Ghent, Belgium, from April 25th to April 27th! Experience an unforgettable celebration of Indian dance, culture, and creativity with world-class workshops, spectacular performances, and an exciting Indian dance competition. Don’t miss this chance to be part of Europe’s premier Indian dance festival!
Celebrating Indian Dance in the Heart of Europe
The rhythmic beats of India are coming to Europe! The Gent India Dans Festival 2025 is set to take place from April 25th to April 27th, 2025, at Shoonya Dance Centre in Ghent, Belgium. This vibrant dance festival is a one-of-a-kind celebration of Indian dance, culture, and artistic expression, bringing together international dancers, choreographers, and enthusiasts to immerse themselves in the beauty of India’s rich dance heritage.
Kalbeliya workshop with Aakansha - 2024
A Vision Rooted in Tradition and Innovation
The Gent India Dans Festival is more than just a dance event; it is a movement to celebrate and elevate Indian dance forms on an international platform. Curated by Swapnil Dagliya, this festival aims to:
✔ Preserve and Promote Indian Dance – From the grace of classical styles like Kathak and Bharatanatyam to the energy of Bollywood, Bhangra, and Garba, the festival offers a diverse lineup that showcases India’s rich dance traditions.
✔ Make Indian Dance Accessible to a Global Audience – By hosting this festival in Europe, we aim to create an inclusive space where dancers from all backgrounds can experience the magic of Indian dance forms.
✔ Encourage Cross-Cultural Exchange – Featuring renowned international and Indian artists, the festival fosters a space for learning, collaboration, and artistic growth.
✔ Revive and Celebrate Indian Folk Dances – Many of India’s folk dance traditions are lesser known outside India. This festival shines a light on these energetic and captivating styles, ensuring their legacy continues.
Bhangra students performing at the Showcase
Workshops, Performances, and a Thrilling Dance Competition!
This three-day festival is packed with exciting opportunities for dance lovers:
🔥 Workshops by Renowned Artists – Learn from some of the best in the industry! The festival will feature Vaishali Sagar, Shampa Gopikrishna, Lavesh Pritmani, Lenka Badriyah, and Aakansha Maheshwari, each bringing their unique expertise to the floor.
🎭 Spectacular Performances – Witness mesmerizing performances by top Indian and international dancers, blending tradition with contemporary innovation.
🏆 Dance Competition – A thrilling Indian dance competition where dancers can showcase their talent and compete for exciting prizes. Whether you’re a solo performer or part of a group, this is your chance to shine!
Why You Should Attend?
✅ Immerse Yourself in Indian Dance & Culture – Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned dancer, the festival offers something for everyone.
✅ Train with World-Class Artists – Learn from some of the most renowned names in the industry.
✅ Network with Dance Enthusiasts from Around the World – Connect with fellow dancers, choreographers, and creatives who share your passion.
✅ Be Part of a Growing Indian Dance Community in Europe– Help strengthen the presence of Indian dance on the international stage.
Join Us in Ghent!
This is not just a festival; it’s a celebration of movement, music, and culture. Whether you’re looking to learn, perform, or simply experience the magic of Indian dance, the Gent India Dans Festival 2025 is where you need to be!
📅 Dates: April 25-27, 2025
📍 Location: Shoonya Dance Centre, Ghent, Belgium
🎟️ Register Now & Find More Info: https://www.abcbollywoodbelgium.com/gent-india-dans-festival
Spread the Word!
Help us make Indian dance shine on a global stage! Share this event with fellow dancers and culture enthusiasts.