Discover Garba
with Swapnil Dagliya
Learn Garba, the vibrant folk dance from Gujarat!
Garba has always been close to home for me. It’s not just a dance—it’s community, celebration, rhythm, and roots. In these workshops, I don’t just teach steps. We learn how Garba feels—the weight of the footwork, the pulse of the dhol, the simplicity of a dodhiyu done well. Whether we're dancing in Belgium or Frankfurt, the energy stays the same: raw, joyful, and real.
What is Garba? Garba is a traditional folk dance from Gujarat, India, performed especially during the nine-night Hindu festival of Navratri. The name “Garba” comes from the Sanskrit word Garbha, meaning “womb,” symbolizing life’s cycle and creation.
The dance is done in a circle around a central lamp or an image of Goddess Durga, reflecting the rhythm of life, time, and the universe. Dancers move in coordinated steps to the beat of traditional music played on instruments like the dhol, tabla, and harmonium.
Garba is full of energy, color, and celebration. Women wear vibrant chaniya cholis (long skirts and blouses), while men dress in kediyu and dhoti (traditional tunics and pants). More than just a dance, Garba brings people together, creating joy, unity, and a deep spiritual connection.
Today, Garba is celebrated worldwide, sharing the vibrant spirit of Indian culture with communities everywhere.
Workshop Highlights:
In my Garba workshops, you’ll learn the fundamentals of this energetic and joyful dance, focusing on what makes Garba truly special:
Core Steps: Master essential moves like Tran Taali, Dodhiyu, and Heench, so you can confidently dance at any Garba Dandiya night.
Clicks, Claps & Turns: Add flair and rhythm by incorporating signature clicks, claps, and smooth turns into your dance.
Fresh Combos: Instead of fixed choreography, practice new step combinations that you can mix and match—making every Garba experience unique and fun.
Community & Joy: Garba is about dancing together and sharing the vibrant spirit of the dance. Feel the uplifting energy as you connect and celebrate with others.
