Garba, a traditional dance is said to be originated in Gujarat, and atleast dates back to the 15th century; this tradition is followed with huge enthusiasm in the entire country and has become an important tradition associated with the festival of Navaratri. Every year, capital city, Bhopal also celebrates this tradition with huge gusto. This year, the spirit of Navaratri has taken over Bhopal with huge Garba events being organised across the city. ‘Abhivyakti Garba Mahotsav’, one of the biggest Garba events organised in Bhopal is being held at BHEL Dusshera Maidan from October 4-8. ‘Kesariya Garba Mahotsav’ at Swayamvaram Marraige Garden is onsetting from October 9-11. ‘Bhojpal Garba Mahotsav’ at Jamburi Maidan from October 5-10 is another event. Additionally, Garba events are also being organised at Khushi Lal Ground (Gayatri Garba Mahotsav) from October 8-10 and at Sundervan Garden, Lalghati (Sanskratic Garba Mahotsav) from October 5-8. Garba is a ritualistic and devotional dance, usually performed during the 9 days of Navratri. Said to be originated in Gujarat, this tradition atleast dates back to the 15th century.

 

The word ‘garba’ comes from the Sanskrit word garbha, meaning ‘womb’. Traditionally, the dance is performed by women in a circle around a earthenware pot lit with an oil lamp, called a garbha deep (‘womb lamp’). This ‘garbha deep’ is a symbol of the body, within whom divinity (in the form of the Goddess or Devi) resides. Garba is danced around this symbol to honor the fact that all humans have the divine energy of Devi within them. One perspective about Garba states that the circles performed by dancers during Garba symbolises the circle of life, which moves from life to death to rebirth. The modern day Garba is actually a fusion of Dandiya Raas and Garba. The mix of two has become very popular amongst the young generation, all over the world. This dance includes rhythmic footwork and is performed barefoot while wearing traditional colorful attires.