Garba in the USA: How a Gujarati Dance Became a Global Phenomenon

Garba is a traditional folk dance that originates from the state of Gujarat in India. It is performed during Navratri, a nine-night festival celebrating the victory of good over evil and the power of the Goddess Durga. Garba is a vibrant and energetic dance that involves spinning, clapping, and moving in circles around a central lamp or an image of the Goddess. Garba isn't just a dance but a way of expressing devotion, joy, and community spirit.

The History and Tradition of Garba

The word 'Garba' comes from the Sanskrit word for womb, which symbolizes life and creation. Garba is said to have originated from the ancient ritual of worshipping the Mother Goddess in clay pots, which were later replaced by lamps or images. Garba is also influenced by Dandiya Raas, another folk dance that involves hitting sticks with partners. Garba and Dandiya Raas are often performed together, creating a colorful and lively spectacle.

Garba is traditionally performed by women, who wear colorful and embroidered outfits called Chaniya choli, along with jewelry and accessories. Men also join in, wearing kurtas and pyjamas or kediyu and dhotis. The performers move in sync with the music, usually played by live bands or singers. The music consists of folk songs that praise the Goddess and modern tunes that blend Bollywood and pop elements. The tempo and intensity of the music and dance increase as the night progresses, reaching a climax at the end.

The Popularity and Uniqueness of Garba

Garba is not just a festival confined to Gujarat, but is popular in other Indian states and foreign countries like Canada, the USA, and the Netherlands as well. Garba has become a global phenomenon, attracting people from different backgrounds, cultures, and religions. It is popular because it is fun, easy to learn, and inclusive. Anyone can join in, regardless of age, gender, or skill level. Garba is also unique because it is not just a dance but also a social event. People meet new friends, bond with old ones, and enjoy the festive atmosphere. Garba is also a way of preserving and promoting the Gujarati culture and identity, especially among the diaspora communities.

Garba in the USA: How It Blends People and Conserves Culture

Garba has been performed in the USA since the 1970s when the first wave of Gujarati immigrants arrived. Since then, Garba has grown in popularity and scale, becoming one of the largest and most anticipated events in the Indian-American calendar. Every year, thousands of people attend Garba events across various cities in the USA, such as New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, Houston, Atlanta, and more. Some of these events are organized by community associations, temples, or cultural groups, while universities or colleges host others. Some of these events are open to the public, while others are exclusive to members or students. Some of these events are traditional, while others are modern or fusion.