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.
Next up:
Antwerp on 6 September 2025
Brussels on 20 September 2025
Ghent on 27 September 2025
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: Learn the heartbeat steps of Garba:
Tran Taali — the signature 3-clap rhythm, plus fresh variations to give your dancing personality.
Heench — the graceful side step with hip and arm styling, along with creative new ways to perform it.
6-step Dodhiyu — the lively movement that keeps the circle flowing.
Variations & Flow (Next 90 minutes)
8 step & 12-step Dodhiyu and playful variations to keep your dancing fresh.
Spin technique for smooth, balanced turns.
Barrels and traveling turns to add dynamic flair.
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.
