Rajkot, October 14 (Daily Kiran) : Gujarat’s Navratri festival transcends the typical garba and dandiya, presenting unique traditions that captivate attendees. In Rajkot and Jamnagar, traditional Raas performances merge faith, courage, and culture in remarkable ways. Young women perform with flaming torches balanced on their heads, while artists dance amidst glowing embers, forming the Swastik symbol.
During Navratri, the Shri Bajrang Garbi Mandal hosts the fiery “Indhoni Raas” at Mavdi Chowk in Rajkot. This 19-year-old tradition remains vibrant, featuring performers who dance for nearly 20 minutes while balancing burning torches and pots on their heads. Maintaining balance and rhythm in such an intense environment is a formidable challenge.
A participant shared, “We practice for over two months for this Raas. My parents are very proud of me, and while performing, it feels like Goddess Navadurga is dancing with us.”
In Jamnagar, the Shri Randhal Ambika Kumarika Garbi Mandal adds to the Navratri festivities with its 52-year-old tradition of the “Swastik Angara Raas.” This performance, renowned for its unique style, showcases young artists dressed in traditional attire, creating the Swastik shape amidst burning wood and embers.
A large audience gathers to witness this thrilling spectacle, with many standing on elevated spots to enjoy the view. Visitors from abroad, including Germany and South Africa, also express interest in this vibrant tradition.
Organizer Suresh Gondalia notes that their Garbi celebrations have been ongoing for 52 years. In addition to Swastik Raas, the festival features other traditional performances like Mashal Raas, Sadak Teen-Tanni Raas, and Dakla Raas.
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