More young people attend Garba events at John Fisher School in south London than before
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A Garba event at John Fisher School in south London attracted around 300 people on the 18th of October, according to the organiser, Mr Anil.
He said attendance can exceed 700 at busier events in areas such as Central London and Harrow.
Garba is a traditional Gujarati folk dance commonly performed during Navratri, a Hindu festival. According to Mrs Ekanath, a 73-year-old Indian grandmother, the dance is traditionally performed in a circle. The event began with Garba before moving on to dandiya, in which participants tap decorated sticks together while dancing.
For younger attendees, the events provide an opportunity to meet friends and participate in cultural activities. Sohil Pamneni, 16, from Sutton, said: “You get to see your friends, meet other people, and enjoy the loud music.” He had not previously tried dandiya, but other participants showed him the steps.
Vatsal Bandaru, 17, who has attended Garba for around seven years, said the events also welcome people from outside the Gujarati community. “As a South Indian I’ve been welcomed excellently by the Gujarati community, with other mums and dads teaching me the authentic dance,” he said.
Several attendees who were interviewed described Garba as an annual activity, with some returning each year and others attending to learn the dances for the first time.
The events therefore provide opportunities for young people to participate in Gujarati cultural traditions, regardless of their own cultural backgrounds. The attendees interviewed suggest that Garba events like this may give young people, including those from outside the Gujarati community, a way to take part in the tradition.
