About The Event
Celebrate the spirit of Navratri with five vibrant acts tracing garba from sacred rituals and the triumph of Shakti to Gujarat’s rich folk heritage and the divine raas of Radha and Krishna.
Garba is at the heart of Navratri, bringing devotion, music and movement together in a celebration that has travelled across generations. ‘Garba Viraasat’, by Soni’s School of Garba Dance (SSGD), explores this beloved tradition through its spiritual roots and living heritage, revealing its many expressions through dance, live music and narration.
The performance opens with an invocation to Maa Amba and garbo sthapana, where the sacred flame becomes a symbol of life, creation and the divine energy within us. It then moves through the nine nights of Navratri and the triumph of Shakti, exploring the symbolic battle against negative human tendencies such as ignorance, fear, attachment, greed, anger, pride and ego. Dandiya and garba bring this story of inner transformation and awakening to life.
The production then traces Garba’s roots, celebrating the singers, composers, lyricists and traditional instruments that have shaped its evolution. From prachin to arvachin garba, the stage comes alive with do taali, teen taali and heench, bringing together children, youth, women, men and elders in a vibrant expression of Gujarat’s shared cultural heritage. The journey continues into raas, drawing inspiration from the divine love and joyful interplay of Radha and Krishna, reflecting on its place within Gujarat’s cultural identity.
Live dhol, dandiya and garba performances carry the celebration towards an aarti and a grand finale featuring the entire ensemble. Founded in 1998 by Jigar Soni, Suhrad Soni and Nivruti Soni Shetti, SSGD has dedicated itself to preserving and promoting authentic garba through training, performances, workshops and educational initiatives, taking the tradition to over 18 countries.
This performance is supported by Reliance Foundation.
