We had the pleasure of speaking with the Organizers (Nash Aujla & Gurcharan Bhujhangy) to discuss the upcoming tribute event and more.

Today, we are not merely gathered in a room; we are standing upon the shoulders of a giant. In 1967, when the sounds of the Dhol first intertwined with the electric energy of the UK, Dalbir Khanpur Bhujhangy was there, leading the charge.

From the factories of Smethwick to the Guinness World Records, Dalbir Bhujhangy did not just play music, he cultivated a home for our culture in a new land. 

What was the primary motivation behind organizing this specific tribute concert at this particular time?

Dalbir Khanpur Bhujhangy was a prominent musician, songwriter, and singer from the renowned UK band Bhujhangy Group, recognized as one of the pioneering Bhangra groups in the UK based in Smethwick, Birmingham. The group performed at various shows and weddings throughout the country, laying the groundwork for the growth of the UK Bhangra scene.

Unfortunately, Dalbir Khanpur Bhujhangy passed away due to a major heart attack on November 28, 2008, while at work, at the age of 59. His nearly 60 years of contributions to the world of Bhangra music will be remembered. A large tribute concert has been organized to honor his legacy, showcasing a journey through the evolution of UK Bhangra music to its current state.

The last tribute concert held in memory of Dalbir Khanpur Bhujhangy, featuring myself, Herjinder Khanpur, and Nash Aujla, took place on November 30, 2013, at the Tower Ballroom in Birmingham.

Herjinder and Gurcharan Khanpur are accomplished musicians who are carrying on their father's legacy into the future. They have displayed significant talent through their performances with Dalbir Khanpur, as members of the Bhujhangy band.

How do you believe Dalbir Khanpur Bhujhangy’s early work—commencing with their first EP, "Bhujhangy Group vol 1 and his first song was called Fashion Bahada Janda," in 1971—influenced the development of the modern UK Bhangra scene?

Our family resided in a small village named Khanpur in Punjab, India. Our grandfather, Sansar Singh, emigrated to the UK in 1955, settling in Smethwick, Birmingham. In 1964, Dalbir Khanpur Bhujhangy arrived in the UK with his mother, Chanan Kaur, and commenced employment at foundries and factories in Smethwick, Birmingham.

In 1967, he began exploring his passion for music by singing, playing instruments, writing songs, and performing at family events, local pubs, community gatherings, and temples. This marked the beginning of his musical journey within the industry.

These were challenging times, characterized by a lack of education and financial support while also caring for loved ones. The absence of phones, television, and transportation made daily life difficult. Nevertheless, our family and friends shared a profound bond of love and respect.

Bhujhangy Group established their first EP recording studio at Zella Recording Studio in collaboration with Jonny Haynes, which was released and distributed by Star Agencies (which later become Oriental Star Agencies LTD) in Birmingham in 1971. The first song featured on this EP album was titled "Fashion Bahada Janda," and the group subsequently recorded numerous additional tracks.

How will the proceeds from the raffle for the Sanjhi Sewa Charity contribute to supporting the local elderly community in addressing social isolation?

Sanjhi Sewa Charity was established to address social isolation among the elderly. The upcoming event aims to bring together local communities, facilitating the formation of new friendships to combat loneliness. Furthermore, the funds raised will be utilized to support additional projects within the community.

Together, we are making a difference.  This event aims to foster unity within the local community.

How do you envision the music of the Bhujhangy Group bridging the generational divide?

The Bhujhangy Group has aimed to establish a strong foundation for future generations in the UK music industry. Their recorded lyrics often reflect personal experiences and challenges they faced at the time, while also promoting unity among diverse cultures and communities through their performances and recordings. Their work serves as a celebration of positive living, even during challenging periods in the 1970s.

Could you please share a memory from the early years in Smethwick when Dalbir khanpur and the whole Bhujhangy group were personally distributing their EPs to local jukeboxes?

Following each album release by Star Agencies in the 1970s, we distributed copies to local pubs using our bicycles as a means of promotion, as well as provided them to our families and friends. Whenever the Bhujhangy band performed, we also brought our albums to sell to the audience. We recorded a variety of styles, including Bhangra songs, Qawwali, and religious and dharmik songs.

Dalbir famously balanced a factory job with his passion for music. What does this convey about his dedication to his craft and the Punjabi community?

Dalbir Khanpur Bhujhangy worked in factories and foundries in Smethwick, Birmingham, starting in 1964. He faced significant challenges as he did not attend school in the UK. Despite these obstacles, he made efforts to achieve a balance between his family, work, and musical pursuits. Dalbir was passionate and dedicated to promoting Punjabi music by integrating Eastern and Western instruments to create UK Bhangra music through the Bhujhangy band.

They began by practicing various songs and developing new melodies in their front room in Smethwick. During this time, they were inspired by the music of the Beatles and Elvis. Dalbir Khanpur was married to Jaswant Kaur, and together they had two sons, Herjinder and Gurcharan Khanpur.

How does it feel to witness the Bhujhangy legacy continuing to thrive nearly 60 years after the group's inception?

We acknowledge the contributions of bands such as Bhujhangy Group, Anari Sagneet Party, Anjaan Group, K Biba, Saathi Group, and Musafar Group, which played a significant role in establishing the foundations of UK Bhangra music in 1967. A substantial credit is due to all the musicians involved in the creation of UK Bhangra music; they are regarded as the true pioneers.

As the final beat of the dhol gently fades, let us remember that Dalbir’s music never truly eases. It resonates in every Bhangra track you hear today and in the community spirit they will be demonstrating in the evening for Sanjhi Sewa.

The music of Dalbir Khanpur Bhujhangy endures, and we invite everyone to come together to honor his legacy as part of a Tribute Concert.

During this event, they will sing his lyrics and reflect on his life, discussing his contributions, performances, and cherished memories.

Let us make a positive impact through Sanjhi Sewa Charity.

We extend our sincere gratitude to all those who have supported and participated in organizing this remarkable Tribute Concert for Dalbir Khanpur Bhujhangy, celebrating his influence on UK Bhangra.

Join us to commemorate the legacy of one of the pioneers of UK Punjabi music, Dalbir Khanpur Bhujhangy, at this special event organized by Gurcharan Bhujhangy and Nash Aujla.

Date: Saturday, 7th March 2026

Location: Walsall FC, Jimmy Walker Suite

Doors Open: 6pm

Parking: Free parking available at the FC

Tickets:

GET YOUR TICKETS HERE

Raffle proceeds to go Sanjhi Sewa Charity

For further details contact Nash Aujla or Gurcharan Bhujhangy.

Tele 07762521584

Thank you for keeping the flame alive and may the Bhujhangy spirit remain in your hearts.

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