Bhopal: The Shriji Garba Festival kicked off with a dazzling display of light and rhythm Tuesday evening at the Ashoka Garden Dussehra Ground. Over 100 participants holding earthen lamps performed the opening aarti, creating a mesmerizing scene that marked a spiritually vibrant start to the celebrations.
As the night progressed, hundreds of dancers, including women and men in traditional Chaniya Cholis, took to the floor. The sound of clattering dandiyas and joyous Gujarati music, featuring popular songs like “Dholida Dhol Dheemo” and “Kesariyo Rang Tane Lagyo,” filled the air. The vibrant energy and rhythmic footwork of over 200 participants captivated a large audience, turning the venue into a hub of excitement.
A festival of themes
Organizers have curated a unique six-day event with a different theme each night. The inaugural evening was dedicated to Gujarati culture, but upcoming nights will feature Rajasthani, Punjabi, and other regional themes, ensuring a fresh experience for all attendees.
This year marks the first time the festival is being held at the Dussehra Ground, drawing a massive crowd from all corners of the city. The event is a grand collaboration, with Navbharat serving as the official media partner, bringing the festivities to a wider audience. The overwhelming enthusiasm on the first night promises a spectacular week ahead filled with music, dance, and community spirit.
Sakshi Prajapati, choreographer at Denex Dance Academy, said that 100 people from her academy have come to the festival to play Garba. Preparations for this event have been ongoing for about a month. All participants, along with her colleague Vijay Prajapati, practiced Dandiya and Garba.
I love playing Garba. I’ve been playing Garba for about 15 years. And this time, I’m getting the chance to play at Shriji for the first time. I’ve been preparing for it for the past month, so I’m very excited.
-Laxmi Somkuvar, Bharti Niketan, Bhopal
Every time I see a Garba event, I’ve always wanted to play. But this is my first time here, and the day’s theme is different, which I enjoyed. I’m very happy to be able to dance Dandiya and play Garba here.
-Akanksha Sahu, Sundar Nagar
After a month of preparation, I got the chance to play Garba. Only Garba songs are being played here, so I’m really enjoying it. The absence of Bollywood and film songs makes the entire atmosphere feel like a traditional Garba.
-Sandhya Khandekar, Indrapuri
