Garba workshops are becoming more popular as Navratri season unfolds in Bengaluru. Residents are joining workshops to enhance their garba and dandiya skills and prepare for the upcoming festivities. The city is alive with excitement as individuals gear up to dress in vibrant outfits and dance to the traditional beats. From local gatherings to large events, Bengaluru is poised to witness a showcase of cultural celebration this weekend.

According to dance choreographer Amisha Jhawar, social media has played a key role in raising the popularity of garba and dandiya. By highlighting the fun and communal aspects of these activities, more people have been encouraged to take part. Additionally, the increasing focus on fitness has made garba, essentially a cardio workout, more appealing to a wider audience.

Many participants find garba to be a therapeutic experience, drawn back each year by the joy, connection, and community spirit it offers. The informal group setting, use of props like dandiya sticks, and the variety of dance styles all contribute to the appeal of these workshops, as mentioned by Amisha, who organizes dance sessions in the city.

Garba is considered a beginner-friendly dance, with a focus on mastering footwork first, followed by incorporating arm movements to fully enjoy the dance. Sheena Chaudhary, a dance instructor, underscores that the spirit of Navratri is infectious and thrilling.

Sheena explains that dandiya and garba are typically seasonal dances, prompting people to start practicing nearer to the event to solidify their knowledge of the steps and enhance their performance or simply to embrace the festive ambiance. Both men and women participate, with more women typically taking part. The steps are largely gender-neutral, making men feel comfortable joining in. To accommodate different skill levels, steps are taught in a simplified manner with some choreography. The workshops create a positive atmosphere, with participants laughing, smiling, and enjoying the experience."Having fun is what it's all about," she remarks. Bijal J Shah, a Zumba instructor, emphasizes the unifying power of dance: "Teaching dandiya and garba, I was struck by the sight of all my students – not just Gujaratis – dancing with equal fervor and joy, completely immersed in the music. It was a beautiful illustration of unity and happiness, showcasing how dance can bring people together, regardless of age or skill level. It serves as a natural form of exercise," adds Sheena, who initiated dandiya and garba classes in advance. "With movements like squats, arm stretches, and neck exercises, it offers a comprehensive workout. I always start with a warm-up before delving into the techniques to prevent injuries, especially for beginners. Considering today's sedentary lifestyles, which often involve prolonged sitting and corporate work, it's important to prepare the body before dancing." Nimesh and Mohit Chhag, brothers who have been organizing dandiya and garba workshops for 14 years in Bengaluru and across India note the increasing demand for learning these dances. "Each year, there is a growing interest in mastering new styles and steps, leading to a rise in workshop participation. To cater to this demand, we have expanded our workshop locations and schedules to make it more accessible for people. Our teaching philosophy revolves around the three Ps: Patience, Practice, and Perfection. By simplifying the instruction, fostering a friendly environment, and introducing different garba and dandiya styles, we aim to make the learning process enjoyable and inclusive." A valuable tip for beginners is to practice consistently as it leads to increased comfort and proficiency with the steps.Steps and beats. Learn by observing: Watch skilled dancers to grasp their technique and style. Have fun and relax: Garba is all about enjoyment! Don't stress about perfection; simply let loose and savor the music. Garba etiquette: Respect others when participating in garba. Avoid pushing or colliding with fellow dancers, and stay aware of your surroundings. What to wear? Garba performers often choose colorful and lively outfits. Traditionally, women opt for cholis and ghagras, embellished with detailed embroidery and decorations. Men typically wear kurtas and dhotis. Nevertheless, contemporary garba attire varies widely, demonstrating a mix of cultures and trends.