By Tamara Hill | Photo Manager
Garba is a form of dance which originated in Gujarat, India. Garba dance celebrations typically take place around Navaratri, which is a Hindu holiday that is run on the lunar calendar. Navaratri celebrates divine femininity, and that celebration carries on to Garba. Traditionally, Garba was performed by women to honor the Hindu goddess, Durga. Today, people bring their friends, have fun, and most importantly, they dance at Garba events.
“Garba is like life, it all comes in a full circle,” says Keeran Giritharan (‘26).
When dancing Garba-style, participants usually dance in a circle moving counterclockwise. A smaller concentric circle of dancers dance inside clockwise, or vice-versa. Subsequently, people dance with sticks, called dandiya, which they hit together by themselves, with a partner, or as a small group.
On Saturday, October 5th, the annual Garba Night was held at Westhill High School. Food, vibrant costumes, dancing, socializing, and the sales of goods and services went on in the main gym.
“Garba was an excellent night full of incredible surprises,” says Saksham Behl (‘26).
Westhill hosts Garba every year, and people from all over the county attend. This year, there were over 500 people dancing and celebrating. On Saturday’s celebration, there were also lively dance performances that encapsulated India’s culture. Along with the Garba dance itself, Bollywood music was played and dancers also danced in a modern Indian way. by playing Bollywood music, and having dancers dance in a modern Indian way. Additionally, there was catering from Dhabewala Indian Shack , a local Indian restaurant in Stamford. The Mango Lassi, which is a smoothie consisting of mango puree and yogurt, seemed to be a big hit!
“Going to Garba with your friends is fun because it introduces them to something they don’t know about,” says Simeran Samra (‘26).
Small businesses and nonprofits also used the Garba to fundraise and showcase their work. This year, there were two notable vendors: Chinmaya Mission and a henna stall. Chinmaya Mission Stamford, which is a non-profit Hindu organization, sold books to fundraise. Additionally, the henna stall gave girls and women beautiful henna-stained hand designs.
One of the most important things about Garba is getting ready and bringing your friends with you. It’s fun for everyone, and getting your friends to learn about South Asian culture can also be enlightening. This year’s 2024 Garba Night was a big hit. People from all backgrounds and cultures joined together to celebrate the festivities and had a good time.