This year, Gujarat won’t be witnessing its trademark Navratri celebrations and garba. The Gujarat government, in its guidelines, stated that no type of garba, including public or street, will be organised in the state. Puja, aarti can be performed, in the presence of up to 200 people by installing Mataji’s idol, following SOP including social distancing. Offerings too cannot be distributed.
It was earlier announced that the dance festival will not be organised on a large scale but people, especially Khelaiyas (the dancers) were expecting a green flag for street garba. But it’s a no for Navratri celebrations this year. It has disappointed some garba-lovers but most citizens have welcomed the government’s decision.
The Ahmedabad Medical Association had been urging the state government not to allow garba this year given the Covid-19 crisis. Otherwise, the situation will worsen and if the cases increase it will be difficult to treat the patients. The medical association refused to comment on this.
On the other hand, it’s been a difficult time for artists, especially musicians and dancers, along with technicians due to the ongoing pandemic. They were hoping to get a lifeline through Navratri celebrations. The big garba organisers had earlier said that they will not be hosting festive programmes in view of the increasing graph of Covid-19 cases.