TOWAMENCIN – The North Penn High School gymnasium is no stranger to dancing when it comes to events like the Winter Ball, but on Friday, October 14, there was dancing of a different kind as the Indian Cultural Association held its annual Garba, filling the gymnasium with the sights and sounds of the traditional nine-day Hindu festival of Navratri that celebrates the God Ambaji.
All were welcome from the community to join in the festivities for an entrance fee of $5, with proceeds going to a charitable organization. Stepping through the doors of the gymnasium, the beauty of those participating in the ritualistic dance around the religious icons that sat in the center of the gymnasium floor astounded those who attended.
“As a religious festival, people do different types of dances around pictures of the God we are celebrating. The night is split into two parts: Garba and Raas. Garba is dancing in different forms around the God’s picture. The second part, Raas, is performed with two sticks called “dandiya.” Participants form a line with a partner and rotate after doing the various steps. There is also a part where we pray and sing together to celebrate and focus on God,” said Indian Cultural Association’s president, Priya Dadhich.
With many men dawned in kafni pyjamas and women in Chaniya choli, the traditional dress of the Indian culture, the circular motion of the dancing transformed into a visual delight, showcasing the vibrancy of the clothing. To engross attendees further in the culture, samosas and bhel, Indian food staples, were available for purchase.
The Indian Cultural Association has offered North Penn a taste of India for over a decade, holding events that they encourage any interested community member to attend.
“Every year, the three main events that occur are Garba, Diwali Dinner, and Republic Night. Diwali dinner is a night of fun where all the members come together to celebrate the Indian New Year. Held in January, Republic Night is dedicated to celebrating India becoming a republic on January 26th,” said Pryia Dadhich.
This year’s Garba Night was certainly a success, as those who attended united for a night of dancing, friendship, and religious praise. Anyone who enjoys exploring the diversity that exists within the halls of North Penn might find themselves enriched by what the Indian Cultural Association has to offer.