Men in Sarees Steal the Show: Gujarat's 200-Year-Old Garba Tradition Continues to Amaze During Navratri!

During Navratri, it is common to see men and women playing garba together. However, in Gujarat’s Shahpur area, men have been following a unique tradition for over 200 years—they dress up as women and perform garba, donning sarees and blouses as part of a ritual deeply rooted in local customs.

This unusual celebration takes place during the Sharad Navratri, which started on October 3 this year. While millions across India celebrate the festival with joy and devotion, the Shahpur neighborhood in Ahmedabad stands out for its long-standing tradition where men dress up as women to play garba on the eighth day of Navratri.

A Tradition with Deep Roots

In the Shahpur area, particularly in Sadhu Mata Gali and near the Amba Mata Temple, men from the Barot community come together, dressed in sarees, to perform garba. This custom, known as "Sheri Garba," has been passed down for generations, and it draws spectators from far and wide.

The tradition is said to have begun nearly 200 years ago, linked to a local legend. According to the story, a woman named Saduba cursed the men of the Barot community. In response, the men began dressing as women and playing garba to ward off misfortune. This practice, they believe, helps protect their community from any calamities.

A Unique Cultural Event

On the eighth day of Navratri, the streets of Shahpur come alive with the sight of men adorned in sarees, participating in the ritualistic garba dance. This unique event not only preserves a centuries-old tradition but also serves as a spectacle that attracts many visitors to the area.

This custom highlights the rich cultural diversity of Navratri celebrations across India, where different communities honor the festival in their own unique ways.