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Meet Davinder – a visionary cultural leader whose passion for South Asian heritage has driven over two decades of dynamic work in music, film, and the performing arts.
In this spotlight, we caught up with Davinder to learn more about his creative journey, the mission behind Punjabi Roots, and how South Asian arts can spark both pride and connection.
Can you introduce yourself and tell us a bit about your practice?
I’m Davinder, Founder and Director of Punjabi Roots. I’ve worked in the music, events, and entertainment industry for over 25 years, both nationally and internationally. Music has been a huge part of my life from a very young age—it’s what first inspired me to explore creativity, and that journey has since led me to become a film and TV director, music producer, and mentor.
Through Punjabi Roots, I’ve been able to channel my passion for South Asian culture into workshops, performances, and educational programmes that celebrate and elevate our heritage. We work with schools, communities, and festivals across the UK, using dance, music, and storytelling to build confidence, understanding, and pride.
Who or what inspires or influences your work?
My work is deeply influenced by my cultural roots and the vibrant energy of Punjabi heritage. From a young age, I was inspired by traditional folk music and Bhangra, as well as iconic artists like Gurdas Maan and Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, who brought depth and emotion to their performances – BUT more so my Dad (Jagtar Singh Romana) has been my biggest influence as by watching him perform from such as young age – music and culture is in my blood!
At the same time, I’ve been equally inspired by Western music genres like hip-hop, grime, and jazz, and artists who aren’t afraid to break the mould. This blend of East and West is what drives my creativity — fusing tradition with innovation.
Life experiences have also played a major role: growing up in Bradford, I’ve seen how music can bring communities together and create dialogue across cultures. That’s what drives Punjabi Roots — using music, dance, and visual arts as tools for unity, celebration, and storytelling.
How has BPH supported you and your development?
Bradford Producing Hub has been an incredible support system in my journey as a creative and cultural producer. Through BPH’s programmes and workshops, I’ve gained valuable insight into project planning, funding, and sustainable creative practice. Being part of the Expanding Horizons cohort gave me the confidence and tools to think more ambitiously about cross-cultural collaborations and large-scale performances.
BPH has also helped me connect with a wider network of artists, producers, and organisations — both locally and nationally — which has opened up exciting new opportunities for Punjabi Roots. Their belief in inclusive storytelling and pushing creative boundaries has directly aligned with our vision, and their continued mentorship has been instrumental in the growth of both myself and the company.
How has being part of Bradford’s creative community influenced your work?
Being part of Bradford’s creative community has been deeply influential in shaping both my artistic direction and the ethos of Punjabi Roots. The city’s cultural richness — with its diverse communities, traditions, and stories — has provided a powerful foundation for our fusion of music, dance, and performance.
Bradford’s grassroots energy and spirit of collaboration have also played a huge role. Whether working with schools, local festivals, or interfaith and community events, there’s a strong sense of purpose and unity here that drives us to use our art as a tool for connection and celebration. The city’s history and resilience continually inspire me to create performances that are both meaningful and uplifting — rooted in heritage but always looking forward.
What would be your dream collaboration/project?
My dream collaboration would be a large-scale, cross-cultural stage production that fuses traditional Punjabi folk with global genres like Afrobeat, Latin, grime, and classical — blending live music, dance, visuals, and storytelling. I’d love to work with international artists, from choreographers to orchestras and street performers, creating a powerful immersive show that celebrates identity, migration, and unity through rhythm and movement.
Taking this project on an international tour — from UK arenas to cultural festivals in India, South Africa, and the US — would not only showcase our Punjabi Roots ethos globally but also create opportunities for cultural exchange, youth engagement, and community empowerment. I see it as a creative celebration of diversity that brings people together through art, energy, and joy.
What does being an artist in Bradford mean to you?
Being an artist in Bradford means carrying the spirit of one of the UK’s most diverse and culturally rich cities on my shoulders. It’s about representing a community that is full of resilience, creativity, and history — and using my platform to celebrate that through music and performance.
Bradford has shaped my identity — it’s where I discovered my passion for rhythm, connected with my Punjabi roots, and saw the power of the arts to unite people from different walks of life. As an artist here, I feel a responsibility to give back, inspire the next generation, and create a legacy that reflects pride, unity, and innovation. Being based in Bradford isn’t just a location — it’s a movement.
What’s next for you? Are there any upcoming events you want people to know about?
Right now, we’re continuing to grow Punjabi Roots by expanding our educational outreach and creative programmes across the UK. Our focus remains on creating immersive, high-energy experiences that celebrate South Asian culture and inspire future generations.
We’re also working behind the scenes on a new cross-cultural project that fuses North Indian Bhangra and South Indian classical dance – more to be announced soon! Keep an eye on our socials @punjabirootsofficial to follow the journey.
