Garba workshops are becoming increasingly popular as Navratri season is in full swing in Bengaluru. Residents are eagerly participating in these workshops to improve their garba and dandiya skills and prepare for the upcoming festivities. The city is bustling with excitement as individuals gear up to dress in colorful attire and dance to the traditional tunes. From local gatherings to large events, Bengaluru is poised to showcase its rich culture and joyous celebrations this weekend.

The use of social media has been instrumental in boosting the popularity of garba and dandiya. By highlighting the fun and communal aspects of these activities, more people are encouraged to join in. Additionally, the rising interest in fitness has made garba, known for its cardio benefits, more attractive to a broader audience, according to dance choreographer Amisha Jhawar.

For many participants, engaging in garba is a therapeutic and joyful experience that fosters connection and community. The relaxed group environment, the incorporation of props like dandiya sticks, and the variety of dance styles all contribute to the workshops' appeal. Amisha, who conducts dance workshops in the city, emphasizes that garba is a dance suitable for beginners. She advises focusing on footwork initially for a smooth performance, gradually adding arm movements to enhance the overall dance experience.

Choreographer Sheena Chaudhary highlights the infectious and exhilarating spirit of Navratri. She explains that dandiya and garba are seasonal dances, with people typically practicing closer to the event to improve their skills and embrace the festive mood. Sheena notes that both men and women participate in these dances, with most steps being gender-neutral to ensure inclusivity. To accommodate various skill levels, she simplifies the choreography during her workshops, creating a lively and enjoyable atmosphere where participants laugh, smile, and immerse themselves in the festive spirit."Dance has the ability to unite people from different communities in a joyful and energetic way," shares Zumba instructor Bijal J Shah. She recalls a heartwarming moment when all her students, not just Gujaratis, danced together with equal enthusiasm and harmony, highlighting the unifying power of dance that transcends age and skill levels.

Sheena, who conducts dandiya and garba classes, emphasizes the physical benefits of these traditional dances as a natural full-body workout involving squats, arm stretches, and neck engagement. She stresses the importance of warming up before practicing the dance techniques to prevent injuries, especially for beginners accustomed to sedentary lifestyles.

Brothers Nimesh and Mohit Chhag, who have been organizing dandiya and garba workshops for 14 years, note the increasing demand for learning these dances, with a growing interest in new styles and steps. To cater to this demand, they have expanded their workshops and schedules, aiming to make learning enjoyable and accessible through patience, practice, and striving for perfection.

For beginners, the key advice is to practice consistently to become more comfortable with the steps over time.Here is the rephrased content:

Learn from experienced dancers to observe their technique and style while enjoying the rhythm and energy of Garba. Remember to relax and have fun – perfection is not necessary, just let yourself go and immerse in the music. When taking part in Garba, it is important to show respect towards others by avoiding pushing or bumping into them. Consider the colorful and vibrant costumes traditionally worn by Garba dancers, with women usually dressed in cholis and ghagras and men in kurtas and dhotis, adorned with intricate designs and embellishments. Keep in mind that modern Garba attire can differ widely, reflecting diverse cultures and styles.