Navratri

Traditions/Rituals
The nine-day cultural extravaganza wraps the entire Gujarat during the first nine days of Ashwina. The festival is dedicated to goddess Amba, Godess of Shakti or forces which supports the entire universe. During Navratri, a pot with attractive designs is ceremoniously placed a light is placed inside. The Devi Mahatmya and other texts invoking the Goddess who vanquished demons are cited.


Interesting feature of navratri is the " garba " , a circular dance Performed by women around an earthenware pot called a " garbo ", filled With water. As the dancers whirl around the pot, a singer and a drummer Provide the musical accompaniment. The dance usually starts slowly, it gets Faster and faster as the music too gets more rapid. Another dance which is Also a feature of navaratri is the " dandia - ras " or ' stick dance ', in Which men and women join the dance circle, holding small polished sticks or Dandias together, adding to joyous atmosphere. The dances usually commence Late in the night and continue until early morning, testifying to their Great popularity.

Location
Gujarat

Time
October - 17th to 25th - 2001
October -7th to 14th -2002

Dangs Darbar

Traditions/Rituals
The annual Dangs Darbar Fair is held every year in the cool and pleasant climate of Ahwa. It is known as Darbar because during the time of British, Darbar of Rajas and Naiks of neighboring districts used to gather here. Today, it is reputed as one of the biggest fairs held in Gujarat and is also known as Janambadi Darbar.

Countless tribal people from the adjoining districts participate in the fair dressed in colourful traditional outfits and sounding the shehnai and beating their drums. the fair also attracts merchants from the far away districts of Nasik, Surat and West Khandesh. The major attractions of the fair include ras and garba performances, songs and dramas that give a close look at the local culture and traditions.

Location
Ahwa

Time
March / April - 28th to 1st - 2002

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