The vibrant spirit of Navratri has transformed the Gujarati Sanatan Samaj, the oldest and most prominent organization for the Gujarati community in Jamshedpur, into a lively tapestry of color and culture. As the nine-day festival unfolds, the Samaj is alive with the rhythmic sounds of raas, garba, and dandiya, featuring 16 teams and over 700 enthusiastic participants in this eagerly anticipated annual celebration.
Dressed in traditional Gujarati sarees and chaniya cholis, members of the community, young and old alike, are proudly showcasing their dance skills, preserving the rich cultural heritage of their homeland. Celebrating Navratri for more than eight decades, the Gujarati Sanatan Samaj continues this cherished tradition with the same fervor and enthusiasm as in previous years. This year, however, brings a special emphasis on highlighting Hindu culture and values.
A noteworthy addition to this year’s festivities includes performances that celebrate the richness of Hindu culture. Groups of participants are enacting dramas that bring to life stories from Hindu mythology, further showcasing India's cultural heritage. These performances enrich the traditional Navratri celebrations, transforming them into occasions not only of joy and festivity but also of education and reflection on the roots of Hindu culture.
A senior official from the Gujarati Sanatan Samaj emphasized the significance of preserving tradition through such events. “For over eighty years, we have organized traditional dandiya and garba dances for the Gujarati community in the city. What sets this celebration apart is the involvement of people from all backgrounds. Navratri is a time when we come together, transcending our differences, to celebrate unity, dance, and devotion,” he stated.
The Navratri festivities extend beyond the Gujarati Sanatan Samaj's premises. The Sri Surat Gujarati Samaj, another prominent community organization, is hosting Ras Garba and Dandiya performances every night at the Jalaram Temple in Bistupur during the nine-day festival. Men and women, dressed in their festive best, gather at 9 p.m. each evening to partake in garba and dandiya, moving to the beats of traditional music. The celebrations here will continue until Navami, the ninth day of Navratri, drawing enthusiastic participation from all segments of the community.
Integral to the celebrations are the traditional rituals honoring Goddess Durga. Every evening, attendees come together to perform aarti and offer prayers, seeking blessings for health, prosperity, and happiness. Following these rituals, the area transforms into a vibrant dance floor, where the rhythmic clapping of garba and the swirling sticks of dandiya bring the atmosphere to life. The festive spirit is further enhanced by the mouthwatering Gujarati delicacies that are a staple during this joyous time.
No Navratri celebration at the Gujarati Sanatan Samaj would be complete without its signature Gujarati delicacies that add a unique flavor to the festival. Popular dishes like ‘gathiya,’ ‘undhiyu,’ ‘phaphra,’ and ‘dhokla’ are served to participants and guests alike, providing a delicious taste of Gujarat’s rich culinary traditions. These dishes are a beloved part of the festivities, relished by all who attend.
