DHOL FEST 2008
WORLD RECORD BREAKING - DHOL EXTRAVAGANZA

Beats of Dhol will be thundering in Birmingham at the ArtsFest this year. Channel Punjab will be organising a unique Dhol - World Record breaking event which will be held on Saturday 13th September 2008 as part of the ArtsFest weekend 12-14th September 2008. This record breaking event will take place at the Chamberlain and Victoria Square, Birmingham City Centre and will be managed by Channel Punjab in partnership with ArtsFest organisers.

Jasbir Singh Derewal CEO - Channel Punjab says, "We have already generated a huge interest from a wide range of people of all ages and backgrounds. We are anticipating on having over 500 Dhol players from all over UK come together to break the existing record which stands at 314 dhol players and to set a new world record in Birmingham, we look forward to working with the ArtsFest organisers on this history making event!".

The current record that is recognised by the Guinness World Records stands at 314 Dhol players playing together, which was held outside the Oldbury Council House, Sandwell on Saturday 3rd July 1999.

Bindi Sandhu – Event Manager says, "We worked very closely with Guinness Book of Records when we set the world record of mass number of Dhol players playing together at one time in 1999. I will be contacting Guinness Book of Records and asking them to assess the event on the day. We will ensure breaking the current record will be carried out according to their rules and guidelines".

"ArtsFest is the UK's largest free festival, which celebrates the wealth of creative talent in the West Midlands. We are pleased to have this world record attempt as part of the line up activities over the ArtsFest weekend to further raise the profile of this important cultural festival. I would encourage everyone to take part." Said Cllr Ray Hassall, Cabinet Member for Leisure, Sport and Culture – Birmingham City Council.

Everyone regardless of age, gender or background is welcomed to participate in this event. The only thing you need is your own Dhol and email for a registration pack at: dholfest@channelpunjab.net

This event will mark the 300th anniversary of Gurgaddi Diwas of Guru Granth Sahib ji. This is in honour of installation of Guru Granth Sahib as the Word Guru.