Surrey (Canada)
Royal Academy of Punjab – Surrey
Rooted in the Academy’s long-established values of authenticity, heritage, and professionalism, the Surrey studio offers comprehensive programs for children, youth, and adults. Our focus is to develop strong fundamentals, build confidence, and foster meaningful cultural connections through the true folk dance traditions of Punjab. Our Surrey studio continues to inspire dancers and strengthen community through commitment, creativity, and passion for Punjabi folk dance.
Location & Contact
Surrey Studio Location
#202 - 12451 - 82 Avenue
Surrey, BC, Canada V3W 3E8
Staff
Hardeep Singh Sahota (General Manager)
Hardeep Singh Sahota is the Founder and General Manager of the Royal Academy of Punjab and a nationally recognized leader in Punjabi folk arts education, cultural preservation, and community arts development in Canada. As the first Certified Bhangra Instructor in Canada through the Canadian Dance Teachers Association (CDTA), Hardeep has played a pioneering role in transforming Punjabi folk dance into a professionally structured and widely respected art form across North America. With nearly two decades of experience in teaching, choreography, adjudication, festival production, and cultural leadership, Hardeep has helped establish the Royal Academy of Punjab as one of Canada’s leading institutions for Punjabi arts education and performance training. Under his leadership, the Academy has trained thousands of students, developed award-winning competitive teams, and created large-scale cultural initiatives that promote intercultural dialogue, youth engagement, and heritage preservation. Hardeep has coached, judged, produced, and participated in major Bhangra and folk arts events internationally since 2008, earning recognition for his commitment to excellence, authenticity, and innovation in Punjabi performing arts. His work extends beyond dance instruction into community development, mentorship, cultural advocacy, and arts leadership, helping shape opportunities for future generations of Punjabi artists in Canada and abroad. Through his vision and dedication, Hardeep Singh Sahota continues to elevate Punjabi folk arts onto provincial, national, and international stages while building meaningful cultural connections through education, performance, and community empowerment.
Deeksha Arora ( operational Manager)
Deeksha Arora is the Senior Dance Instructor at Royal Academy of Punjab. She has been an integral part of the Royals success for more than seven years. Deeksha is a certified Giddha Instructor through the Canadian Dance Teachers Association (CDTA). Deeksha has won national and international bhangra competitions with the Senior Royal Queenz team and coaches elite teams for competition. Deeksha is a Simon Fraser University graduate and holds a degree in Criminology and Child Psychology. Her passion for Punjabi folk art fuels her pursuit for higher learning and achievements in the arts sector, as well as giving back to the community by connecting future generations to their heritage.
Anita Lal (Business Development Manager)
Anita Lal is the Business Development Manager at Royal Academy of Punjab. Her values of seva, social justice and advocacy fuel her work as the co-founder of Poetic Justice Foundation where she has been creating impactful and transformative programming, organizing, and activating her community. Her approach is always inclusive, intersectional and critical. Anita serves on Boards and Advisory Committees for the Province of BC’s Punjabi Canadian Legacy Project, South Asian Studies Institute at The University of the Fraser Valley, and Seva Thrift Society. She is inspired by Dr. Ambedkar’s words: Educate. Agitate. Organize.
Sukhwinder pal singh (Dhol Instructor)
Sukhy Dholi is a celebrated percussionist known for his powerful rhythms and deep passion for Punjabi folk music. With years of experience performing across Canada, Sukhy brings unmatched energy, precision, and authenticity to every performance. As a lead Dhol instructor at the Royal Academy of Punjab, he mentors students of all ages—passing down traditional techniques while inspiring creativity and pride in cultural roots. His mission is simple: to keep the heartbeat of Punjabi folk alive, one rhythm at a time.
Simranjit Singh (Graphic Desinger)
Simranjit Singh, born and raised in Delhi, developed a profound passion for the art of Bhangra early in life. This passion led him to dedicate his career to preserving and promoting Punjabi performing arts. Since 2019, Simranjit has been an integral part of the Royal Academy of Punjab, where he has been actively teaching and working toward advancing Punjabi dance. As a coach and leader, his commitment to fostering cultural heritage and artistic expression has made a significant impact on his students and the broader community. Simranjit’s work continues to inspire the next generation of dancers, keeping the vibrant spirit of Bhangra alive.
Arshdeep Sidhu (Bhangra Teacher)
Arshdeep Singh Sidhu discovered his passion for Bhangra at a young age and transformed it into a lifelong journey of rhythm, discipline, and cultural pride. As an instructor at the Royal Academy of Punjab, he combines traditional technique with modern energy to help students build confidence, teamwork, and a deep connection to their Punjabi roots. Arshdeep’s teaching inspires every dancer to move with heart, purpose, and pride in their heritage.
Gurroop Dhaliwal (Bhangra & Giddha Teacher)
Gurroop Dhaliwal is a passionate and dedicated educator committed to preserving and promoting Punjabi language, culture, and performing arts within the community. With a strong connection to Punjabi heritage and years of experience working with students of different age groups, Gurroop brings energy, creativity, and cultural authenticity into every class. Known for a warm and engaging teaching style, Gurroop focuses on creating a positive learning environment where students feel confident, inspired, and connected to their roots. Through interactive instruction, cultural storytelling, and performance-based learning, students are encouraged to develop both technical skills and a deeper appreciation for Punjabi traditions. At the Royal Academy of Punjab, Gurroop plays an important role in nurturing the next generation of artists and cultural ambassadors by helping students build discipline, confidence, teamwork, and pride in their heritage.
Ravleen Reel (Bhangra & GiddhaTeacher)
Ravleen Reel is a talented and enthusiastic instructor dedicated to inspiring students through Punjabi arts, culture, and creative expression. With a passion for teaching and community engagement, Ravleen brings a vibrant and encouraging approach to every class, helping students grow both artistically and personally. Her teaching style combines creativity, discipline, and cultural learning, allowing students to build confidence while developing a strong connection to Punjabi heritage and traditions. Ravleen believes in creating an inclusive and motivating environment where every student feels supported and empowered to express themselves. As part of the Royal Academy of Punjab team, Ravleen Reel is committed to fostering cultural pride, artistic excellence, and meaningful learning experiences for students of all ages.
Gursimar Sahota (Advanced Dance Instructor)
Gursimar Sahota is an accomplished Advanced Dance Training Instructor at the Royal Academy of Punjab, specializing in Punjabi folk dance performance, choreography, and stage training. With extensive experience in competitive and cultural dance environments, Gursimar is passionate about mentoring students in advanced techniques while preserving the authenticity and energy of traditional Punjabi folk arts. Focused on discipline, performance excellence, and artistic growth, Gursimar trains students in areas such as synchronization, stage presence, musicality, stamina, and team coordination. His teaching combines traditional folk foundations with modern performance standards, helping students prepare for competitions, cultural showcases, and professional-level presentations. Known for a motivating and structured teaching style, Gursimar encourages students to push their creative and technical abilities while building confidence, leadership, and cultural pride. Through advanced training and mentorship, he continues to inspire young performers to represent Punjabi culture with excellence and passion.