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History of Garba Dance: Garba, one of India's most colourful and lively dance styles, is now a joyful aspect of Navratri celebrations all over the world. Garba has become a symbol of solidarity, devotion and celebration due to the dhol sound, the rhythmic claps, the swirl of vibrant chaniya cholis, and the enthusiasm of thousands of dancers. However, did you know that Garba wasn't originally a dance performance? Its roots are actually found in a simple but later spiritual ceremony.

Garba was traditionally performed in front of a Garbha Deep, an earthen pot with a lamp inside. The lamp represented the triumph of good over evil and the everlasting light of Goddess Durga. What started as a devotional offering evolved into a vibrant folk dance over centuries, eventually spreading throughout Gujarat, India, and eventually the rest of the world. Garba is now more than just a dance; it is a celebration of Indian tradition around the world, an emotion and a cultural identity.

Let’s take a look at the details of what history of Garba and how it evolved from a ritual around an earthen lamp to a dance fest.

The Spiritual Beginning: Garba Deep

Garba is derived from the Sanskrit terms Deep (lamp) and Garbha (womb). In the past, women would dance around an earthen pot that had a lamp inside it. The lamp stood for vitality and life, while the pot symbolised the cosmos. During Navratri, this act was performed as a show of devotion to Goddess Durga.

 

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From Ritual to Folk Dance

Over time, Garba changed from being a custom reserved for women to becoming a dance performed by the entire community. To represent the universe's and life's cycle, men and women began performing in circles. The dance was infused with songs honouring the goddess Durga, Krishna, and regional folklore. Garba's dynamic character came from the slow addition of the steps, claps, and rhythmic patterns.

Costumes and Music: Adding Festive Colours

* Traditional attire like chaniya choli for women and kediyu for men gave Garba its vibrant look.

* Musical instruments like dhol, tabla, harmonium, and later modern beats added energy to the performances.

* Today, Garba songs blend folk rhythms with Bollywood and DJ remixes, attracting even younger generations.

Garba Today: A Global Celebration

Once only found in Gujarat, it is now celebrated throughout India as well as in the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada and Australia. Every year during Navratri, thousands of people attend Garba nights hosted by cultural institutions and universities. Garba has developed into a link between the past and the present, preserving cultural traditions while adjusting to the modern world.

 

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Why Garba is More Than Just Dance

* It connects people with spirituality.
* It promotes unity and inclusiveness.
* It keeps Indian culture alive across generations.
* It spreads happiness, positivity and festive energy.