In the midst of the pandemic’s dreariness, Gurdeep Pandher, a beaming social media sensation from Yukon, Canada, found a way to dance his way into millions of Canadian hearts. His fascinating journey has now led him to Manitoba, as part of a nationwide tour aimed at spreading positivity, unity and a deeper understanding of the traditional Bhangra dance.
The journey took root in times of global despair when Pandher began creating sublime dance videos from his quaint Yukon cabin, effectively illustrating the energetic art form that is Bhangra. To his delight, these videos snowballed into a country-wide sensation, eliciting an outpouring of heartfelt correspondence from Canadians far and wide. It was his rhythmic movements and vibrant spirit that breathed warmth into the lives of many, impressing upon him the hidden, widespread sorrow eating away at individuals and communities. This sudden insight compelled him to take action.
As nationwide health restrictions began to lift, Pandher responded to his newfound purpose. He packed his van, set his compass towards Canada’s eastern shoreline and began a remarkable journey across the country. His mission: to touch as many lives as possible and disseminate joy, hope, and unity.
While marching ahead, Pandher assembled get-togethers via social media, inviting people to grace public arenas and partake in the jubilance of Bhangra dancing. He recalls the ensuing encounters with an almost saccharine fondness, relishing in the love and hospitality that welcomed him in each place.
For Pandher, Bhangra was much more than a dance; it was a part of his very soul. He fondly remember the days of his childhood in Punjab, India where he fell in love with this vibrant art form. Dancing, for him, transcended the boundaries of leisure and became a profound form of expression, providing solace in times of personal strife.
“Bhangra has always been my joy, my ‘reset button’,” says Pandher. He emphasizes the inherent positivity and universality of dance and music, a language he believes echoes in every heart, every culture.
Currently, Pandher is gearing up to set foot in Churchill, Manitoba, where he’ll host a standout dance event. From there, he plans to explore several northern and southern communities before culminating the Manitoba leg of his tour with a dance workshop in Winnipeg.
Pandher’s adventure, seen by fans through regularly posted online updates, has already covered 60 percent of Canada. Reflecting upon his experience, he expresses a deep sense of fulfillment and happiness in being able to sprinkle positivity throughout the nation by sharing his beloved dance.
