Garba Dance of Gujarat: A Celebration of Life and Divinity during Navratri

Garba Dance of Gujarat: A Celebration of Life and Divinity during Navratri. Garba is a traditional folk dance that originated in the state of Gujarat, India. It is a joyful and energetic dance that is performed by people of all ages and genders, during the nine-day Navratri festival.

History of Garba

The exact origins of Garba are unknown, but it is believed to have originated over a thousand years ago. The word “Garba” comes from the Sanskrit word “Garbha,” which means “womb.” This suggests that the dance is associated with fertility and the feminine divine.

Traditionally, Garba was performed by women in a circle around a clay lantern with a light inside, called a Garba Deep (“womb lamp”). The Garba Deep represents the life-giving force of the feminine divine.

Over time, Garba has evolved into a more social dance, and is now performed by both men and women. However, the traditional symbolism of the dance remains. Garba is still seen as a celebration of life and the feminine divine.

Different types of Garba

Garba is a traditional Gujarati folk dance that is performed during the Navratri festival. It is a dance that celebrates the feminine divine and the cyclical nature of life.

Garba is typically performed in a circle, with dancers moving counterclockwise. The dance is accompanied by traditional Gujarati music, which is played on instruments such as the dhol (drum), tabla (hand drums), and harmonium.

There are many different types of garba, each with its own unique style and steps.

Traditional Garba:

This is the oldest and most traditional form of Garba. It is performed in a circle around a clay lantern with a light inside, called a garbha deep (“womb lamp”). The garbha deep symbolizes the feminine form of divinity

Some of the most popular types of garba include:

• Be Taali Garba: This is the most basic type of garba, and it is performed with two claps.

• Tran Taali Garba: This type of garba is performed with three claps.

• Raas: This type of garba is performed with sticks called dandiya.

• Dodhiyu: This type of garba is performed with a specific step that resembles the milking of a cow.

• Simple Five: This type of garba is performed with five basic steps.

• Simple Seven: This type of garba is performed with seven basic steps.

• Popatiyu: This type of garba is performed with a specific step that resembles the popping of a balloon.

• Trikoniya: This type of garba is performed with a specific hand movement that forms a triangle.

• Lehree: This type of garba is performed with a specific step that resembles a wave.

• Three Claps: This type of garba is performed with three claps.

• Butterfly: This type of garba is performed with a specific step that resembles the flapping of a butterfly’s wings.

• Hudo: This type of garba is performed with a specific step that resembles the movement of a horse.

• Two Claps: This type of garba is performed with two claps.

In addition to these basic types of garba, there are also many other variations and styles of the dance. Some garba dances are specific to certain regions of Gujarat, while others are performed throughout the state.

Dandiya Raas:

Dandiya Raas is a type of garba that is performed with sticks called dandiya. The dance is typically performed in a circle, with dancers moving counterclockwise. Dancers strike their dandiya sticks together with their partners in a rhythmic pattern.

Dandiya Raas is a very popular type of garba, and it is often performed at Navratri celebrations around the world. The dance is a lot of fun, and it is a great way to get exercise.

Fusion Garba:

This type of Garba combines traditional Garba steps with modern dance moves and music. Fusion Garba is especially popular among young people.

Various Dress for Garba dance of Gujarat

Garba is a popular folk dance of Gujarat, India. It is performed during the Navratri festival, which celebrates the nine forms of the Hindu goddess Durga. Garba is a lively and energetic dance, and it is a great way to celebrate the festive season.

Traditional Garba Dress for Women:

The traditional Garba dress for women is a chaniya choli. A chaniya choli is a three-piece outfit consisting of a chaniya (long flared skirt), a choli (blouse), and an odhni (dupatta). Chaniya cholis are typically made of bright and colorful fabrics, and they are often decorated with intricate embroidery and sequins.

Other Garba Dress Options for Women

In addition to the traditional chaniya choli, there are a number of other dress options that women can wear for Garba. Some popular options include:

• Ghagra choli: A ghagra choli is very similar to a chaniya choli, but the skirt is typically fuller and more voluminous.
• Lehenga choli: A lehenga choli is a more formal dress option than a chaniya choli or ghagra choli. Lehenga cholis are typically made of heavier fabrics, such as silk or velvet, and they are often embellished with expensive jewelry.
• Kediya Gujarati dress: A kediya Gujarati dress is a traditional Gujarati dress that is similar to a salwar kameez. It consists of a kediya (short kurta) and a ghagra (long skirt).

Garba Dress for Men

The traditional Garba dress for men is a kafni pyjama with a kediya.

A kafni pyjama is a baggy pyjama that is typically made of cotton. A kediya is a short kurta that is worn over the kafni pyjama. Men also wear a turban on their heads and a bandhani dupatta around their necks.

Other Garba Dress Options for Men

In addition to the traditional kafni pyjama and kediya, there are a number of other dress options that men can wear for Garba. Some popular options include:

• Kurta pyjama: A kurta pyjama is a traditional Indian dress that consists of a kurta (long shirt) and a pyjama (pants).
• Dhoti kurta: A dhoti kurta is a traditional Indian dress that consists of a dhoti (pleated cloth worn around the waist) and a kurta (long shirt).
• Bandhgala jacket with trousers: A bandhgala jacket is a traditional Indian jacket that is buttoned up to the neck. It can be worn with trousers for a more formal Garba look.

Tips for Choosing a Garba Dress

When choosing a Garba dress, it is important to consider the following factors:

• Comfort: The dress should be comfortable to wear and allow you to move freely.
• Style: The dress should be in a style that you feel confident and beautiful in.
• Occasion: If you are attending a formal Garba event, you may want to choose a more formal dress option. If you are attending a more casual Garba event, you can choose a more casual dress option.

Conclusion

There are a variety of different dress options that you can wear for Garba. The most important thing is to choose a dress that you are comfortable and confident in. With so many different options to choose from, you are sure to find the perfect Garba dress for you.