On Oct. 26, Harvard’s Undergraduate Bhangra cast and team buzzed with vibrant energy as “Raunak 2024,” a much-anticipated showcase, drew in spectators and performers to celebrate Punjabi culture through one of its most dynamic dance forms—bhangra. The event welcomed not only Harvard Bhangra’s own dancers, but also groups from Boston University, Tufts, and Yale, making it a night to remember.
Bhangra, traditionally performed to celebrate the harvest season, is characterized by energetic movements, colorful attire, and the rhythmic beats. Originating from the fields of Punjab, India, this genre has adapted and thrived in contemporary contexts far from its roots. Over time, it has evolved, blending modern music styles such as hip-hop and electronic. At its core, Bhangra reflects community spirit, making it both a cultural practice and a form of storytelling.
At Harvard, this cultural tradition continues to thrive through such lively performances. Founded in 2004, Harvard Undergraduate Bhangra (HUB) is a popular cultural performance group on campus. Known for its ability to seamlessly mix traditional Bhangra with modern choreography, the team has gained recognition for its innovative performances and dedication to preserving the essence of the dance.
Last year was the first year the team was able to bring their show back to campus, due to the COVID-19 pandemic. “Raunak 2024 is an extremely special milestone for HUB because we were able to bring together a team of 14 dedicated performers to showcase South Asian art to the Harvard community and the greater Boston Area,” co-captain of the Bhangra team Raphael Tourette ’26 explained. “Raunak 2023 was HUB’s first time bringing back the show after the devastating financial and membership struggle imposed by COVID.”
The title of their show, “Raunak,” translates to “brightness” or “radiance” in Punjabi—a fitting title for a performance that lit up the stage with its electrifying energy. But what makes Bhangra, and this particular show, resonate with audiences far beyond its South Asian origins? “Raunak” is not just a performance—it’s a celebration of the blend between tradition and contemporary expression that defines today’s cultural landscape. “Putting on a successful show for the second year means the world to us, as we have been able to bring the local South Asian community together through something that we find so much joy in doing,” Tourette added.
The music and choreography throughout the show crafted by the students themselves included fusion pieces, where the dancers intertwined classic Indian music with contemporary hip-hop. Traditional South Asian songs were combined with music from artists like Frank Ocean, Travis Scott, and Beyonce, further exciting the audience. The evening ended with the Harvard Bhangra team’s highly energetic piece, where their synchronized moves complemented by vivid outfits brought the colorful spirit of Punjabi traditions to life.
For many dancers on the team, Bhangra serves as a meaningful connection to their Indian heritage, allowing them to celebrate and share their culture with the campus community. One of the team’s dancers, Sneha Shenoy ’25 explained that performing holds deep personal significance for her. “I grew up learning two different types of Indian classical dance, called Bharatanatyam and Kathak, and performing those art forms was a way for me to connect more personally with my own Indian community in Houston, but also to share my Indian heritage with the broader community—my peers from school, people in my neighborhood, and community events.”
As the evening concluded, Raunak 2024 left the audience with a fresh appreciation for the dynamism of Bhangra and the community it fosters. Through energetic performances and original choreography, Harvard Bhangra and visiting teams offered not only entertainment, but also a look into the vibrant traditions that define Punjabi culture.
“Performing Bhangra specifically for the Harvard community is such a special thing, and it’s just amazing to be able to share that culture with our community and share that energy and passion for dance with everyone else,” Shenoy expressed. The show’s blend of tradition with modern music highlighted Bhangra’s growing role in connecting cultures, making Raunak 2024 a celebration of cultural expression and unity where each team brought its unique talent.
Christina Shi ’27 (christinashi@college.harvard.edu) will be front row at the next Bhangra show.