Garba

Garba is a form of Gujarati folk dance performed during Navratri, a Hindu festival celebrated in Gujarat and by Gujarati communities worldwide. It is primarily a devotional dance in honor of the goddess Durga, performed in circular formations around a central lamp or image.

The term garba is often linked to garbha, meaning womb in Sanskrit, symbolizing life cycles and motherhood, though the exact origins are ancient and tied to Durga worship and seasonal celebrations in Gujarat.

During a Garba outing, dancers form circles, move to devotional garba songs, and clap in rhythm. Women typically wear chaniya choli with mirror embroidery, while men wear kediyu and dhoti or churidar, all in bright, festive colors.

Music and rhythm come from percussion such as dhol and nagara, clapped beats, and singing. The steps emphasize circular movement, fluid spins, and coordinated group patterns that build to energetic finales.

Dandiya Raas, a related Navratri dance, is performed with pairs of bamboo sticks called dandiya and is often staged alongside Garba sessions.

Garba has evolved beyond Gujarat and is now performed worldwide, from cultural festivals in Indian cities to diaspora communities, frequently incorporating contemporary music while preserving traditional choreography.