People across India are gearing up to be immersed in a mélange of vibrant colours and traditional beats as Navratri 2024 approaches, bringing with it one of the most loved forms of celebrations – Garba. While Gujarat is a hotspot of festivities, the state’s folk dance is not limited by that geography. Transcending boundaries, it is enthusiastically performed in other parts of the country by Gujaratis and non-Gujaratis alike. Interestingly, Garba also has a strong fanbase internationally, in countries like the UK, USA, Australia and Canada.

Garba was inscribed on the Representative List of UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2023, bringing global recognition for this regional art form that embodies the divine energy of Durga Maa, or Amba Mata.  The official website of UNESCO mentions, “The practitioners and bearers of Garba are broad and inclusive, from the dancers to the musicians, social groups, craftspeople and religious figures involved in the festivities and preparations. Garba is transmitted across generations in urban and rural areas through practice, performance, imitation, and observation.”