Garba workshops are becoming increasingly popular as Navratri festivities are in full swing, with residents of Bengaluru eager to enhance their garba and dandiya skills. The city is buzzing with excitement as individuals gear up in vibrant attire and prepare to dance to the traditional rhythms. From local gatherings to extravagant events, Bengaluru is poised to host a weekend filled with cultural displays and revelry.
The rise of social media has played a key role in promoting garba and dandiya, showcasing the joy and communal nature of these activities and encouraging more participation. The growing interest in fitness has also made garba more appealing, given its cardio benefits, notes Amisha Jhawar, a dance choreographer. Many participants find garba to be a therapeutic experience, drawn back each year by the sense of joy, connection, and community it provides.
Garba is a dance suitable for beginners, with an emphasis on mastering footwork before adding arm movements to fully enjoy the dance. Sheena Chaudhary, a dance instructor, highlights the infectious and exhilarating spirit of Navratri, noting that dandiya and garba are typically practiced closer to the event to boost memory and performance skills or simply to embrace the festive atmosphere. Both men and women participate, with steps designed to be inclusive and accessible to all skill levels. The workshops offer a vibrant environment where laughter, smiles, and camaraderie abound."Dance has the ability to unite people from various backgrounds," says Bijal J Shah, a Zumba instructor. She recalls a memorable experience while teaching dandiya and garba, where students of all ethnicities danced together with equal enthusiasm, showcasing unity and joy. This highlighted the power of dance that can bring people together irrespective of age or skill level.
Sheena, who conducts dandiya and garba classes, emphasizes the natural workout aspect of these dances, involving movements that engage different parts of the body. Stressing the importance of warm-ups to prevent injuries, Sheena believes in starting classes with a proper warm-up session before moving on to techniques.
Brothers Nimesh and Mohit Chhag, who have been organizing dandiya and garba workshops for over 14 years, have seen a growing demand for these dances each year. To meet this demand, they have expanded their workshops and schedules to accommodate more participants, offering new styles and steps to keep up with the interest.
Bijal J Shah, the Zumba instructor, believes in the three Ps: Patience, Practice, and Perfection. By simplifying the teaching methods, creating a welcoming environment, and explaining the dance styles, she aims to make learning enjoyable and accessible for everyone.
For beginners, the key tip is to practice regularly as it helps in getting comfortable with the steps over time.Steps and beat. Observe and gain insight: Study skilled dancers to understand their techniques and flair. Unwind and relish: Garba is all about having a good time! Don't stress about perfection; simply let loose and enjoy the music. Garba manners: When joining in the garba, it's essential to show respect for others. Avoid shoving or running into fellow dancers, and be aware of your surroundings. What to don? Garba performers often don vibrant and colorful attire. Traditionally, women wear cholis and ghagras adorned with detailed embroidery and decorations. Men usually opt for kurtas and dhotis. Nonetheless, contemporary garba outfits may differ widely, showcasing a range of cultural influences and styles.
