The History and Origins of Garba

Garba is one of the most popular and influential forms of Indian dance.

Hailing from Gujarat, the routine has many connotations and themes.

These include colours, energy, and coordination.

Performers of Garba are full of life and confidence. This shows in their beautiful steps.

Have you ever thought about the origins and history of this massively popular dance form?

Let’s delve into it and discover the story of Garba.

Origins

According to etymology, ‘Garba’ comes from the Sanskrit term ‘Garbha’. This refers to the womb of a mother.

Therefore, the term also alludes to pregnancy, gestation, and above all, new life.

It is believed that the routine dates back to ancient and mythological times in India.

The word also originates from ‘Garbo,’ which is an earthen pot.

Garba was created to honour Durga, an Indian mythological figure.

It is frequently performed in her honour, particularly during the festival of Navratri.

This is as an ode to strong women and the empowerment of female pride.

Garba continues to be seen in many stage performances, showing its continued influence.

What does Garba Entail?

As previously mentioned, Garba represents energy and strength, but let’s divulge the dance routine.

Garba mostly involves female dancers. However, that doesn’t mean that men cannot perform it either.

The dance must be performed along with others. It doesn’t work for solo dancers.

The female dancers typically wear embroidered blouses and these clothes are often adorned with gems and sequins.

The dancers group and dance in a circle to signify the cyclical nature of time.

Movements in the routine are also designed to underscore embryonic development and fertility.

Hand movements and clapping are key to Garba, with people signing the musical verses that accompany the dance.

Singing is also heard in the routine, with percussion instruments also being used.

These include the dholak, tabla, and drum.

Garba Outfits

Garba involves a wide range of spectacular outfits.

There is a huge spectrum of choices for women who enjoy the dance routine.

The traditional lehenga glistens as a beacon of brightness in a Garba performance.

It boasts sequins and luxurious embroidery.

As far as men are concerned, the kurta pajama works as an asset in the dance.

Male performers also intertwine Garba with another routine which is known as Dandiya Raas.

With connotations of emotions and feelings, Dandiya Raas is a popular dance among men.

Female dancers can also wear a chaniya choli, which is a three-piece dress.

It comprises a colourful blouse and skirted bottoms.

Intricately designed, these outfits ensure that Garba is not only an energetic mode of dance.

It is also a breathtaking visual of bright and brash clothing.

Bollywood Representations

Within Indian cinema, Bollywood is one of the leading film industries.

Therefore, the movies that the industry produces can leave an indelible influence on viewers.

When this content represents a dance routine like Garba, it can have a refreshing impact.

Several Bollywood songs contain and show Garba as its key aspect.

Gangubai Kathiawadi (2022)

For example, ‘Dholida‘ from the blockbuster Gangubai Kathiawadi shows the titular character, played by Alia Bhatt.

In a resplendent showcase of dance and movement, Alia gives it her all, adapting to the demanding choreography expertly.

The choreographer of the song, Kruti Mahesh Midya sheds light on Alia’s take on the routine:

“What we did with Alia Bhatt in Gangubai Kathiawadi was a different take on Garba.

“It’s the finer details like the way people turn and clap that make it look all different.

“It did take Alia and all of us some time to get things in motion. But she did a fantastic job.”

Lagaan (2001)

Garba is also seen in ‘Radha Kaise Na Jale’ from Lagaan.

The song showcases Bhuvan Latha (Aamir Khan) and Gauri (Gracy Singh) dancing merrily.

‘Radha Kaise Na Jale’ was choreographed by the late Saroj Khan.

Remembering the routine, Gracy says: “It was like a celebration.

“[Saroj Khan] was very particular about her work but at the same time, she was a very fun-loving person.

“It was a unique quality she had that she used to make even the non-dancers dance.

“Everyday, there is new choreography on the song.

“I have myself performed it in shows over the years and now I feel very happy seeing the different kinds of interpretations of the song.”

The recollections of Gracy suggest that Saroj Khan’s celebration was almost like an ode to Garba.

It is charming and dynamic when Bollywood represents Garba with the energy that many love it for.

Controversy

In 2023, a Medium article talked about the ‘clash’ between Garba and alcohol.

The article highlights the habit of men drinking excessively during performances and celebrations.

It also alleges the contradiction that alcohol presents as an element of Garba:

“Many argue that the presence of alcohol contradicts the essence of Garba, which promotes purity, devotion, and a connection to spirituality.

“The inclusion of alcohol can be seen as a disrespectful deviation from the intended purpose of Garba.

“It may offend those who hold deep respect for the tradition and undermine the spiritual atmosphere that Garba aims to create.

“It’s natural for cultural practices to adapt and embrace modern influences.

“However, it’s crucial to strike a balance that respects the core values and essence of traditions.

“Garba should be an inclusive celebration that welcomes people from all walks of life.”

Over the years, Garba has become popular all around the world, transcending the borders of India.

For example, the UK regularly hosts Garba performances, such as the Aditya Gadhvi Garba Night, due to take place in Wembley in September 2024.

The dance form is highly influential, acting as a method of celebrating feminism.

As we continue to embrace our favourite South Asian dance, Garba is an undeniable asset to the plethora of routines that the diaspora presents.

With so much colour, energy, and richness, Garba performances are enjoyable and unique.

On a global scale, people love participating in the routine which offers them a chance to perform with vigour and passion.

For that, Garba should be preserved and enjoyed for generations to come.