As the echoes of bidding adieu to Lord Ganpati fade away, the vibrant Gujarati community in Jamshedpur is eagerly preparing for the upcoming Navratri Utsav. With joy and anticipation, denizens are adorning themselves in traditional Gujarati attire such as Lehenga Choli, gold jewelry, and other accessories associated with the festive revelry.
Navratri, marking the triumph of adishakti over the demon Mahishasur after a nine-day battle, is celebrated in the city with a focus on cultural and religious programs. The Bengali community adds another layer of festivity by organizing their traditional Durga Puja alongside.
The Gujarati Sanatan Samaj, the parent body of Gujaratis in the city, is set to host the Navratri Utsav at its premises in Bistupur starting from October 15. Office bearers assure a mix of traditional Goddess Durga worship and cultural events, including ras garba, dandiya, and a fancy dress competition.
Come evening, thousands of enthusiasts, adorned in traditional wear, gather at Navratri Mandals for an evening of fun, frolic, and vibrant colors. After performing traditional rituals and paying homage to Goddess Durga, the crowd bursts into song and dance.
Jayanti Shah, a community member, highlights the popularity of the Gujarati women's folk dance, Garba, stating, "Garba of Gujarat is the most popular women’s folk dance of Gujarat. Today it is a social dance at all levels of society."
Dinesh Ranpara, a senior functionary of the Gujarati Sanatan Samaj, shares insights into the community's rituals, including the use of 'Garbo,' a decorated pot symbolizing Goddess Ambema, with a small 'Diva' inside.
Members of the community, dressed in traditional Gujarati sarees or chaniya choli, showcase their skills in raas, garba, and dandiya. This year, enthusiasts are opting for designer wares to stand out during the event.
Bharati Shah, a city-based designer, notes the high demand for Gujarati chainya cholis during the festive season. To accommodate the large influx of devotees, the officials of Gujarati Sanatan Samaj ensure basic amenities, offering free food and accommodation at guest houses. The festival is further enriched with cultural and musical performances by both amateur and renowned artists, adding to the overall grandeur of the Navratri Utsav.
