Researcher Arsh Bains roots for promoting Punjabi folk

Gurneet Kaur

Tribune News Service

Ludhiana, February 14

Punjabi folk culture has taken a back seat nowadays and the impact of western culture has started showing its effects on youngsters. The need of the hour is to preserve and promote Punjabi culture.

In this clash of cultures, Arsh Bains has been trying to promote folk culture among the youth in particular. Bains has been simultaneously working on folk dances, literature, heritage, art and on research of Punjabi culture and traditions.

The one-man army also works as a choreographer, coach, assistant director, creative director and actor to promote Punjabi culture. “It is not us, who are guarding Punjabi culture, but it is our culture which has kept us safe till date,” he says.

After completing his B Pharmacy, Bains decided to do post-graduation in folk dances from Punjabi University, Patiala. After a research of 2 years, he found 42 extinct dance forms, which he had mentioned in his first book “Sanjhe Punjab De Lok Nach”.

Bains organised a function “Virasti Paidan” on November 20 last year in Chandigarh. Around 62 artistes performed and brought forth the importance of preserving the culture.

He has also established a “Folk Blaster India Society” and around 500 youth have attended his workshops at various places wherein he tries to connect them with their roots.