Asian Network DJ steps foot into TV presenting
BBC Asian Network presenter Sukhi Bart has joined free-to-air channel Brit Asia TV for its first studio based show based on Bhangra music.
The programme called ‘UK Bhangra Culture’ is Bart’s second stint at TV presenting after his successful one-off shows on Channel Punjab.
Asked Bart, what the new show is about, he said, “Well we don�۪t hold back on this show, – If a question needs asking, I ask, no ‘penji penji or bhaji bhaji'(beating around the bush). I want people to learn something about the artists that they didn’t already know.
Most importantly some shows will shy away from bringing in Punjabi speaking artists ie Labh Janjua, Malkit Singh etc. because the presenters have difficulty communicating in their spoken language, I don�۪t have that problem; I love Panjabi and love speaking the language. I can interact in Punjabi, Hindi, Urdu and English (of course). So this show is different where we make the guests feel comfortable in whichever language suits them.”
‘UK Bhangra Culture’ also features live performances by artists appearing on the show, a concept followed regularly by mainstream programmes.
Bart added that his association with Brit Asia TV has been a worthwhile experience. “It feels great, it�۪s a great channel. Most importantly it�۪s a professional organisation and run like a professional business. In this day and age of channels that is crucial for the success of the channel”, he said.
Before his work on the BBC Asian Network (Punjabi show and Silver Street), Bart was a presenter on Radio XL. He said, “At last I feel I have found a platform that suits my style of presenting. I want to tell the world and the new generations what Bhangra is all about and our culture represents and how we welcome and embrace others to this. Also to promote Panjabi the language of Bhangra music.”
Brit Asia TV launched on Sky Digital in March. Since then, Brit Asia has been showing Punjabi music videos continuously. The addition of ‘UK Bhangra Culture’ stems the way for interactive shows on the channel.
