Garba dance of Gujarat makes it to UNESCO list
- The Garba dance, a prominent feature of the Navratri festival, has been included in UNESCO's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
Garba Dance
- Garba is a ritualistic and devotional dance performed during Navratri, dedicated to the worship of feminine energy or 'Shakti.'
- Dancers, musicians, social groups, craftspeople, and religious figures participate in the festivities.
- The dance revolves around a perforated earthenware pot lit with an oil lamp or an image of the goddess Amba.
- Participants wear colourful dresses, move in a counterclockwise circle, and incorporate simple steps like hopping and clapping hands.
Cultural Significance
- Garba's inclusion highlights its role in fostering social and gender inclusivity.
- The dance is deeply rooted in Hindu festivals and rituals, connecting people from diverse backgrounds.
Other Indian Cultural Phenomena
- The UNESCO list also includes India's cultural phenomena such as Ramlila, Vedic Chants, Kumbh Mela, and Durga Puja.
Prelims Takeaway
- Garba Dance