On my trip to India last October, the itinerary covered the last days of Navratri, a major festival across India. Navratri means “nine nights,” the last night being a special celebration known as Dussehra. I was in Ahmedabad, Gujarat on the last day of Navratri and was fortunate to experience the very special celebration they have in Gujarat.

According to Wikipedia, There are four Navratris in a year, with the one in the fall, post monsoon, being the most celebrated. The fall Navratri is linked with the goddess Durga and the festival of Durga Puja is at a similar time. Durga is known as a great victor of good over the forces of evil, and Durga Puja celebrates her victory over “the shape-shifting, deceptive and powerful buffalo demon Mahishasura.” [Wikipedia] Rama is also honored at this festival time for his victory of good over evil.

In Gujarat, in northwestern India, a form of dance known as Garba is performed as part of the festival. This practice has spread to many parts of India, but it is particularly celebrated in Gujarat. People dress in elaborate and colorful clothing and dance in a large circle. Venues across the city host these dances on large fields. My hosts had arranged for us to attend the celebration at the Rajpath Club, a private club in Ahmedabad. Along the way I got this picture of a well used two-wheeler with four people on it and one on her phone.

The festivities were well under way when we reached the club facilities. Just outside the dancing area (a large field) there was a small shine to Durga.

Two young ladies were dancing outside. You can see how elaborate their outfits are.

Inside the event, dancing was well under way. The dance is a slow rhythmic movement with spinning around all while you slowly process around the field, which was laid out in a large oval.

People of all ages participated. As I understand it, there is a contest for best outfit and best dancing. You can see the remarkable detail on the outfits. This is a close crop in poor light, forgive the blurriness.

Around the dancing field were bleachers for onlookers, an area with music, and food stalls. The decorations and lighting were impressive.

It was a great place to watch people. Everyone was having a very good time.

Spotlights created a great photo opportunity

The dance is an all-night event.

With the lights and the video screens plus the amazing clothing, it is an amazing scene.

The spectator areas slowly filled up.

A tremendous amount of work must go into making these elaborate outfits. Just beautiful!

There was plenty of variety in the food. Corn was popular.

This group of young people is taking a break and getting a snack.

This was a wonderful experience for me. I cannot thank my hosts enough for the chance to see this amazing celebration. And here is the final repeat photo that I hope Facebook will pick up as the thumbnail for the post.