Arts & Entertainment
Bhangra Takes Center Stage in Boston with Biggest Competition Yet
North America's biggest Indian dance competition returns to Boston, now with live bands for the first time in its 22-year history.
Boston Bhangra is returning to Boston for its 22nd year, and it’s set to be the biggest dance battle yet. The North American dance competition, which celebrates northern Indian dance and culture, is adding a new feature for the first time in its history: live bands from across the US and Canada.
Set for November 15, 2025, at the historic Strand Theatre in Dorchester, the event will blend the high-energy folk dance with live musical performances. Tickets are on sale now at BostonBhangra.com/BBC. The competing teams will be announced at a later date.
What is Bhangra?
Bhangra is a vibrant, upbeat folk dance from the state of Punjab in northern India. Dancers perform highly athletic, choreographed routines in colorful outfits to heavily percussive Punjabi music. The performances are a thrilling and joyful experience.
Originally founded as a dance team in 2000, Boston Bhangra has grown into a non-profit dedicated to promoting cultural awareness. The organization offers Bhangra classes and team performances and hosts events that attract talent from all over the world, enriching Boston’s cultural landscape. The competition serves as the cornerstone of Boston Bhangra’s mission to celebrate rich Punjabi culture.
A New Twist on a Classic Tradition
This year's competition will feature two divisions. One will include musicians performing live with the dancers, while the other will showcase dancers accompanied by a traditional Dhol drum and a backing track. The live music teams will include a singer, a Dhol player, and three to four other musicians playing traditional Bhangra instruments like the Tumbi, Bugchu, and Chimpta. This unique format makes it the only Bhangra competition in North America to feature live musical performances.
“When people hear this music, it makes them move,” said Rohit Bhambi, founder of Boston Bhangra. “We want to use this incredible music to welcome people into our community and educate all of Boston and beyond about South Asian culture.”
The Boston Bhangra Competition will take place on November 15, 2025, at the Strand Theatre (543 Columbia Rd, Boston, MA). Tickets are available now at Bostonbhangra.com/bbc2025/.
