NAVARATHRI CELEBRATION

Navarathri is celebrated by different states (of India) in 'unique' ways. The western part of the country celebrates Navarathri with Dandiya, or Garba, a form of dance where women dance in circles around a pot that contains a lamp. It comes from the word 'Garbha' which means womb. The lamp is used to represent life within the womb. In the southern region, Navarathri is celebrated with Golu, or Bommai Golu, which involves the festive display of dolls. North India observes Navarathri by fasting for nine days while in West Bengal, Navarathri is associated with pandals (marquees) and humongous, expertly crafted idols of Goddess Durga.

Growing up in a country different than your ancestors meant that traditions were an amalgamation of the old with a smattering of the new. Navarathri for us meant not just creating a golu and inviting women and singing together but also meant dressing up in the finest to garba and dandiya the night away. To us this event represents the best of all the Navarathri traditions we had growing up — the dancing and singing of course, but best of all, the community. 

We, at Kala Collective NYC will be celebrating Navarathri again this year in our very own unique way. The evening will start with a few music and dance performances from various groups and will continue to include a short garba and dandiya lesson (should you need to learn!) followed by an open raas garba and dandiya dance floor.