Pammi Bai, a legend in Punjabi folk music and dance, is shaking things up this Baisakhi. He’s launching the World Bhangra League — a sports-style competition inspired by the IPL and Pro Kabaddi League.
The League will have teams, artist auctions, and a global championship format. It’s not just about dance, says Bai, it’s about giving youth purpose, pulling them away from drugs, and bringing pride and prosperity back to Punjab.
This unique announcement is set to take place in Sunam, the hometown of freedom fighter Udham Singh and a landmark in Bhangra history. After Partition, Bhangra was first performed on stage here.
Pammi Bai plans to honor Bhangra pioneers in Sunam, like Manohar Deepak, Bhana Ram Sunami, and Mangal Singh Sunami, who once performed with Nehru in China. It’s a tribute to legends who helped put Bhangra on the world map.
For Bai, Baisakhi is a mix of old memories and new beginnings. From sweets at village fairs to his childhood in Jakhepal, he remembers how the celebration brought families and neighbors together.
This year, he’ll still visit the gurdwara and enjoy jalebis — but now, with a grand vision. Along with the Bhangra League, he’ll drop a new track, “Balle Balle DJ Mix,” hoping today’s youth keeps Punjab’s rich culture alive.