A LOCAL Punjabi music group will set off on exotic Christmas tour this December.

Bradford's Punjabi Roots Academy is set to travel round the west coast of India onboard Tui's Marella Discovery ship this winter.

The Dohl drumming group, established in 2011 by Davinder Singh, will be hosting a programme of traditional drumming workshops on the cruise liner.

Dohl drumming originates from the time when farmers would beat their drums to bring people together to celebrate the harvest, according to Mr Singh.

He said: "Not only does it have the most uplifting feeling to it, it is also very symbolic, with the different beats and dance moves signifying different things about the land and the elements."

The group were recruited for the cruise by Skipton based Peel Talent, which supplies speakers and creatives to a range of cruise companies.

Mr Singh will be joined on the ship with his father, Jagtar Singh, as well as two other drummers from the academy.

Mr Singh said: "In addition to the workshops, which will teach new-comers a range of exercises with the drums – with the aim of them being able to ultimately play the popular ‘chaal’ beat.

"We will also be doing several performances which are guaranteed to get everybody up and dancing.”

Sara Andrew, Cruise Enrichment Manager at Peel Talent said: "Davinder’s extensive knowledge of Indian musical heritage will enrich guests’ experience of this cruise immeasurably, as well as giving them some fun and exercise.”