What comes to your mind when we mention the folk dance form Garba? Well some might say ‘Daya Ben’ from Gokul Dham society, whereas for others it might be a connect from Deepika Padukon’s ‘Nagada Sang Dhol’. Well this gujarati folk dance form is much more than what is shown in movies and TV shows. Take a cultural ride with Mad4India to explore all the hidden and interesting facts about this folk dance of Gujarat!
Garba – History and Origin
Garba, the traditional folk dance of Gujarat is a celebration of life, community, and divine energy. Rooted deep in the history of Gujarat, Garba is surely an emotion for them. The term ‘Garba’ is derived from the Sanskrit word ‘Garbh’ meaning the womb of the mother. There is a culturally rich story attached with its name that is still cherished in the roots of Gujarat.
Symbolism of “Garbh”
This folk dance of Gujarat honors the female aspect of divinity, Goddess Durga. It is mainly performed in concentric circles around an attractively decorated earthen pot kept in between. Now this must interest you that what possibly could be the significance of this pot. We bet you that when you will unfold the story behind it, you will surely feel blessed to be a part of our historically rich Indian culture.
So, to begin with, this pot symbolizes ‘Garbh’ the womb of a mother and there is a lighted lamp inside which denotes the presence of life. Now, the performers play Garba in concentric circles around this pot indicating a complete cycle from life to death to incarnation. This denotes the fact that every female posses a divine energy of Devi Durga inside them. It also celebrates the start of menstrual cycle of a woman and this is the reason that the pot kept in between is painted bright red.
Costumes of Garba
Unlike many other traditional dance form, Garba, the famous dance of Gujarat, is performed by both men and women. And since it is a celebration of life and divine energy of a women, so it is performed in bright sparkling outfits. Women wear colorful and shining Chaniya Choli with a colorful chunni and men on the other hand wear the traditional outfit of Gujarat, i.e. Kediya and Churidar. Kediya is a mid-length stitched anarkali top worn by them along with a flare churidar.
Men tie a safa (cloth on their head) to match the cheerful vibe of the women’s costume and the females pair the outfit wit vibrant jewelry. It includes jhumka, kamarbandh, mathapatti, necklace, bangles etc. The overall vibe is created primarily with the costumes.
Why Garba is performed in Navratri celebration?
Navratri, meaning ‘nine nights’ is a Hindu festival dedicated to goddess Durga and her nine forms. From fierce sword goddess Kaalratri to the smiling creator of universe, Goddess Kushmanda, Navratri is an ultimate celebration of the feminine form of divinity. In Gujarat, these nine nights holds specific significance as it is celebrated by performing the folk dance of Gujarat.
Basically Garba denotes the divine feminine power and the nine nights so men and women perform in concentric circles to celebrate the feminine energy in the honor of goddess Durga. Along with the religious celebration, this folk dance of Gujarat is also performed in weddings, cultural fests, regional showcases etc.
Some Folk dances of Gujarat
| 1. Palli Jag Garbo |
| 2. Maniaro Raas / Kanabi Raas |
| 3. Vinchhudo |
| 4. Dandiya Nritya |
| 5. Mer Ras |
| 6. Kahalya |
| 7. Hudo |
| 8. Tippani |
| 9. Gop Ras |
Garba is a global fever now
Initially, this folk dance was popular only among the Gujaratis, but due to the increased cultural interactions and the influence of mass media, it is now celebrated all over India and even the world. Recently, UNESCO has recognized this popular Gujarati folk dance on its Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The joy and craze for this dance form is irresistible and it is surely something that can make a non-dancer go crazy. The vibrant costumes, electrifying beats and the chilling energy attracted global attention now!
Fun & Frolic spirit of Garba in Bollywood!
Bollywood, a hit film industry all across the globe has a crazy Garba fever since years. Its soulful melodies and classic hits take a toll on everybody’s mind for years. Since 90s, this dance form has been a joyous priority of the bollywood. From dholi tharo dhol baje to nagada sang dhol, the popularity credit of this folk dance could be given to this film industry as well. The pictorial representation of Gujarati folk dance made it more attractive for the nation and this is the reason the whole India celebrates ‘Dandiya and Garba nights’ during the nine nights festival!
If you never witnessed a Garba night in your life then I suggest you pick one crazy vibrant outfit and make a plan for the next Navratri. At least once in your life you should experience the joy and love people have for Garba. We at Mad4India share the good parts about India with everybody out there so, this folk dance being included in UNESCO’s intangible cultural heritage list is a proud thing for the nation that should be celebrated. So, put on your costumes and play “Aae Haaalooo!“
For copyright purposes, links of the feature image – Instagram, macdancesociety
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Garba is celebrated in Gujarat?
Garba is a dance form that marks the celebration of a female’s first menstrual cycle and later her capacity to give birth.
What is unique about Garba?
It is a dance form that celebrates the feminine form of divinity.
Which is the traditional dance of Gujarat?
Garba is a traditional dance of Gujarat.
Is Garba, dance of Gujarat performed by men as well?
Yes, Garba is performed by men as well.
What are the traditional dance forms of Gujarat?
Along with Garba, Dandiya Raas, Tippani, Padhar, Sidhi and Dangi are also performed in Gujarat.
If you loved discovering Garba, the folk dance of Gujarat, then do give a read to This Folk Dance Of Rajasthan Is Inspired By The Snakes Of Desert – Kalbeliya Dance, A Powerful and energetic Folklore.
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