As RJ Shravan of Eventwale puts it, the idea is to ensure that “Gen Z continues to make garba theirs”. The group chat is buzzing, the mirror-work chaniya cholis are being pulled out of wardrobes, and someone is already sending reels of the best Garba nights in town. With Navratri drawing to a close, this weekend is the last chance to get the gang together and dance the night away. In Pune, organisers are looking to make these outings about more than just the dance floor, with music, vibrant decor, food and photo-worthy spaces adding to the festive experience. From choosing venues based on their vibe to dressing up with friends and discovering events through social media, young enthusiasts are finding their own ways to embrace a tradition that continues to bring people together.
For 22-year-old Ciya Nimbarmunde, a smaller gathering can be just as enjoyable.
RJ Shravan, says the idea is to build around the tradition rather than take away from it. He says, “Tradition survives by being passed forward, not by being frozen in time. We are making sure that Gen Z continues to make garba theirs. ” Elaborate lighting, decor, food, photo opportunities and a lively atmosphere can add to the evening, he says, while the music and dance remain central. “The smaller the circle, the bigger the enjoyment!” she says.
This mix of music, fashion and togetherness is also shaping how organisers present garba to younger audiences. So we are trying to best put this tradition forward. We are not trying to make garba Gen Z at all. No, we are not doing that. Yet, not every young garba-goer is looking for a grand production. Good music and familiar faces matter more to her than the scale of an event. She also points to Falguni Pathak’s music as something that is hard to beat when it comes to garba.