Satnam Galsian: Love or Sacrifice

Aviva Studios (The Social)

Satnam Galsian: Love or Sacrifice

Reimagining women’s roles in Punjabi folklore

Satnam Galsian presents the vibrant premiere of a brand new mjf originals work, commissioned by Oldham Coliseum Theatre (as part of Khushi Festival), The Old Courts Wigan and mjf.

Satnam Galsian is a groundbreaking British Asian singer-songwriter and progressive folk artist whose music blends the rich tradition of Punjabi folk with contemporary, feminist storytelling. Through her distinctive sound, Satnam reimagines the vibrant narratives of her heritage, responding to traditional Punjabi songs through a modern and empowering lens.

For this premiere, Satnam has created Love or Sacrifice, a new piece that explores themes of gender roles and the expectations of women in South Asian culture. Her songs are deeply rooted in her personal experiences, drawing on her own journey of identity, belonging, and empowerment. Challenging the notions of how love is portrayed in Punjabi folklore tales, Satnam explores the complexities of navigating multiple cultural worlds and the strength that comes from embracing one’s true self.

With two self-released EPs, Fragmented Truth and Sahiban, Satnam has begun to carve out her own space on the folk music scene. She was a recipient of the Alan James Creative Bursary and an Opera North Resonance residency, both of which have allowed her to expand her artistic vision and deepen her musical craft. Satnam is also part of Kinaara, a cross-genre trio that blends Punjabi folk songs, original compositions and Celtic music. An artist who is redefining what it means to carry forward Punjabi folk music, Satnam Galsian continues to break boundaries and amplify voices often left unheard.