Remember I told you about the dance that takes place during Navratre in Gujarat earlier this week? Here is an explanation of the dances and some pictures from the weekend. Raas Garba is a folk dance from the state of Gujrat in north-west India, where people dance in a circle. They clap their hands to the rhythm of live drums, among other things. Dandiya is the other type of folk dance and means "sticks". Here, dancing couples "hit" sticks in a special pattern. You can dance in a large circle, a smaller circle or two and two against each other. Further down you can see a video from the weekend.
Here's a picture of me and my sweetheart from the weekend.
Normally, an altar is decorated in the middle of the ring and people dance in a circle around the altar, often in different rings with the fastest at the innermost. The more people, the more rings. Garba comes from the Sanskrit word "garbha", which means life - a fun and unusual aspect as a tribute during the festival.
In both dance forms there is a different rhythm and speed. Normally it starts slowly then it goes faster and faster. It is common to have garba or dandiya night in connection with weddings and big celebrations, but especially in Navratre. The dances are in honor of Mother Durga. People dress up in their finest and dance until late at night.
I myself learned this dance when I was 14 years old and think it was a great honor to decorate myself with bracelets, Indian clothes and follow the tradition that has been in me ever since. Here is a video from this weekend's celebration in Lisleby community center under the auspices of the Gujrati Cultural Club, which, with the diligent board, decorates, prepares the party and lots of delicious food. Many thanks to the talented board for their efforts and the invitation. The food is of course vegetarian and without onion or garlic. Potato stew, rice, pori, papadam, pickle and chutney are quite common to serve during the events. Here is a video of dandiya from the weekend.