Garba is a popular dance form performed during the festival of Navratri in India. The word ‘Garba’ is derived from the Sanskrit word ‘Garbha’ which means womb. The dance form is believed to be originated in the state of Gujarat and is now practiced all over India and around the world.
The dance form of Garba is usually performed by women in a circle around a decorated clay pot called ‘Garbo’. The pot symbolizes the womb and the lighted lamp inside the pot represents life. The women hold small wooden sticks called ‘Dandiya’ in their hands and dance to the rhythm of the music.
Here are the steps to perform Garba:
Step 1: Preparation
To perform Garba, you need to wear traditional Indian clothes like chaniya choli or a salwar kameez. You also need to wear comfortable shoes as the dance involves a lot of footwork. Make sure to tie your hair in a bun or ponytail to avoid getting it tangled in the Dandiya sticks.
Step 2: Forming a Circle
The dance is usually performed in a circle around the Garbo. The participants hold hands and move around in a clockwise direction.
Step 3: Starting the Dance
The music for Garba usually starts slow and gradually increases in tempo. The participants begin to move their feet in a rhythmic pattern and move around the Garbo.
Step 4: Dandiya Raas
After a few rounds of Garba, the participants start playing Dandiya Raas. The dance involves striking the Dandiya sticks with each other in a coordinated rhythm. The participants move around the Garbo while playing the Dandiya Raas.
Step 5: Footwork
The footwork in Garba is an essential part of the dance form. The participants move their feet in a pattern of three steps forward and one step backward. The footwork is done in sync with the music.
Step 6: Coordination
The key to a good Garba performance is coordination. The participants need to coordinate their footwork and Dandiya Raas with the music. The participants also need to maintain the circle formation and not bump into each other.
Step 7: Ending the Dance
The dance usually ends with the participants forming a spiral around the Garbo and slowly unwinding it. The music gradually slows down, and the participants disperse after the dance.
Final Conclusion on how to play Garba in Navratri
In conclusion, Garba is a fun and energetic dance form that is enjoyed by people of all ages during Navratri. The dance requires coordination, footwork, and rhythm. With practice, anyone can learn to perform Garba and enjoy the festive spirit of Navratri.
