Garba - The Folk Dance of Gujarat

Garba is a popular folk dance form of Gujarat, a state in western India. It is performed during the nine-day Hindu festival of Navratri, which celebrates the goddess Durga. Garba is also performed on other occasions such as weddings and cultural events.

History and Origin of Garba

Garba has its roots in the devotion of the goddess Amba, or Mother Earth, as well as the ancient fertility worship of the mother goddess, Shakti. The dance form is believed to have originated in the Gujarat region more than 500 years ago.

Costumes and Music of Garba

Garba is traditionally performed by women who wear colorful chaniya choli (long skirt and blouse) with lots of mirror work and embroidery. They also wear heavy jewelry and decorate their hair with flowers. Men wear kafni pyjamas with a short kurta and a colorful turban.

The dance is accompanied by live music played on traditional instruments such as dhol, tabla, and dholak. The songs are in the Gujarati language and praise the goddess and her various forms.

Steps and Movements of Garba

Garba is a circular dance performed around an earthen lamp called a Garba Deep. The dancers move in a clockwise direction, clapping their hands and tapping their feet to the beat of the music. The steps and movements are simple and repetitive, making it easy for anyone to participate.

Conclusion

Garba is not just a dance form but a celebration of life, love, and devotion. It brings people together, regardless of their age, gender, or social status, and creates a sense of community and harmony.

The correct answer is b)- Garba
Garba is a form of dance which originated in the state of Gujarat in India. Garba is  a dance that honors, worships, and celebrates the feminine form of divinity. The word "garba" comes from the Sanskrit word garbha,meaning "womb." Traditionally, the dance is performed by women in a circle around a clay lantern with a light inside, called a garbha deep ("womb lamp").