A Conversation with Bhangra Royalty Jazzy B at the Soho Road Diwali Celebration

Soho Road was a vibrant tapestry of celebration as the Diwali Mela drew in thousands on Sunday, immersing attendees in an eclectic mix of music, funfair attractions, delectable cuisines, and a spectacular fireworks display.

Organised by the Soho Road Business Improvement District (BID), the event lit up the city on October 29, heralding the approach of Diwali with a grand illumination. Among the glittering array of artists, Jazzy B — the revered ‘Crown Prince of Bhangra’ — alongside Dr. Zeus, Steven Sahota, Legha, and USR, enthralled the audience with their performances.

In a candid pre-show conversation, Jaswinder Singh Bains, better known as Jazzy B, expressed a deep affinity for Soho Road, likening it to his own abode. Reminiscing about the track ‘Soho Road Utte’ by Sardara Gill, he recalled its popularity across Canada and his initial visit to the legendary Soho Road, which solidified its significance for him. Celebrating the area’s diverse evolution, he mused, “Soho Road is home. Born in India, nurtured in Canada, and the UK has embraced me with love.”

Detailing his initial struggles, Jazzy B recounted the early days of shared living and the hustle to make ends meet, stressing the importance of remembering one’s origins. Offering inspirational advice, he urged, “Keep dreaming; nothing is unattainable. Patience and hard work can make anything possible — the sky’s your limit.”

When queried about his preferred eatery on Soho Road, Jazzy B diplomatically praised the entire local food scene, from the humble stalls to the exquisite restaurants.

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Jazzy B also delivered an impassioned plea to his followers, emphasizing the significance of cultural and linguistic heritage. “Celebrate your mother tongue,” he urged, crediting the existence of his stage persona to the Punjabi language.

Adding to the excitement, Dr Zeus and Legha expressed their anticipation for their performances. For Birmingham-born Dr Zeus, the occasion was a homecoming, a chance to connect with his roots through music and the celebration of Diwali and Bandi Chhor Divas.

Legha Yusif, with her beginnings in Soho Road’s musical soil as part of “Rouge”, felt a sense of nostalgia and excitement, ready to revive memories and create new ones with her upcoming performance.

The event’s success was underpinned by local and national business contributions, a point of pride for Soho Road BID’s Chairman, Bob Balu, and BID Manager, Rakesh Soni, who were both effusive about the festivities and the strong community support that highlights Birmingham’s dynamic spirit.

News Source: Birmingham Mail.