Its time for Navratri – Garba

Navratri which literally translates into “9 Nine Nights” is spread over 9 nights and 10 days and is one of the most sacred festivals in Hinduism where Goddess Durga or Shakti is worshipped, which representing the energy of the universe, in her 9 beautiful forms with great reverence.  During these nine nights and ten days, nine forms of Devi are worshipped. The tenth day is commonly referred to as Vijayadashami or “Dussehra”.

This colorful and soulful festival also known as ‘Garba’ is not limited to only Gujaratis, the entire Indian community  comes together and enjoys playing garba & dandiya together.  The festival  is  celebrated all over India and Nepal, starting off the “season of festivals” which leads in Diwali, twenty eight days later.

Although traditionally celebrated in nine consecutive days, in North America and other parts of the world, the nightly activities of Navratri take place on weekends, lasting for 2-3 weekends. Musical nights with colorful dresses and playful dance steps performed by all ages are must watch sight.

The Ladies and Men alike take pride and joy each year in selecting that perfect outfit.  As fashion trends change, there are ways you can get creative to put together that perfect outfit, year after year.

A mix and match with different combinations are more in trend now a days,  so don’t worry if you have a nice “choli” but don’t like that “chaniya”!

You can wear chaniya from your another pair and accordingly choose chunni from your wardrobe. You might be a part of latest trendy designer wear chaniya choli without spending much. Another tip to make your outfit unique is to accessorize by getting some big matching earrings made of colored stones or jewels and don’t forget about that hairstyle!  See our article ‘Desi Chic Hair Styles for Navratri’

Ready to go? What about the steps which can be just as trendy as your outfit?

You still need to practice some 6 or 10 steps Garba moves also known as ‘Dodhiyu’, there are many videos and classes available to help you prepare for the nights ahead.  You can see modernization in garba’s steps, which are influenced by Bollywood music, It’s a festival filled with fun and energy.

Communities and families living outside of India look forward to the evening  festivities as Navaratri has become more then a religious event as its a great way to connect again with friends and family getting together in celebration for teenagers and adults alike, giving them a way to with rich culture, tradition and religious significance.

• Authors- Priya Darshan and Dipa Shah