They have conquered the world stage for over 26 years and now the UK based multi-award winning dance group, Gabhru Panjab De (GPD), have officially won the UK Bhangra Awards 2014 under the category ‘Best Dance Group’. The awards ceremony took place at Baylis House, in Slough.
Popularly known as GPD, the group is based in Sandwell and Birmingham. Having been established in 1988, it now has over 200 registered members.
- Gabhru Panjab De (GPD) group
Gabhru Panjab De (meaning: ‘Youth of the Panjab’), are one of the leading Bhangra dance groups in the world and are considered as the ambassadors of Bhangra with numerous performances and accolades across the globe including France, Turkey, Jordan, Sweden, Holland, Germany, Belgium, Canada, Bulgaria, UAE to name but a few. In 2001 GPD won 1st place at the Bhangra dance competition held in Toronto, Canada.
“Gabhru’s have been dominating the entertainment industry since 1988 through phenomenal Bhangra performances, leaving audiences wowed and completely spellbound. We are known for pushing the boundaries of dance both artistically and conceptually through constant contribution to the evolving and highly competitive entertainment industry. We are extremely dedicated and determined to succeed and push ourselves even further and to inspire the next generation of performers. We would like to thank everyone who voted for us and have continued to show their love and support,” said Aki Sandhu, GPD’s manager and choreographer.
The red-carpeted awards ceremony was one
- GPD team members with the trophy
of the biggest bhangra extravaganza of the year that was filled with live performances, dances, celebrations and recognition of the best in the UK’s bhangra industry.
“We are committed to educating and inspiring future generation of dancers and audiences. Our dream is for everyone to experience Bhangra dance at least once in their lifetime. We strive to be an artistic force by creating innovative and expressive dance performances for all audiences. A big thank you to everyone who voted for us.” Said Peeta Nakodariya – GPD: Asst. Manager/Singer/Coach.
“In 1988, our story started with six friends who had a passion for Bhangra, music and dance. Not in our wildest dreams did we imagine that GPD would grow into one of the most successful Bhangra dance groups outside of India to date. We celebrate today an outstanding achievement by winning the prestigious UK Bhangra Award for ‘Best Dance Group’ category. GPD would like to thank everyone who voted for us, the events organisers and also everyone who has been supporting us since 1988. I’d also like to congratulate all of the other winners and nominees who where shortlisted on the night,” said Bindi Sandhu, GPD’s founder and brand manager.
The other categories included on the night were ‘Best’ – Newcomer, Radio Show, Website, Male Singer, International Singer, Special Contribution Award and Lifetime Achievement Awards.