200-year-old Garba ritual unfolds on eighth night of Navratri in Gujarat
200-year-old Garba ritual unfolds on eighth night of Navratri in Gujarat
Manifestly, a 200-year-old Garba ritual still unfolds in an hamlet in Ahmedabad part of Gujarat. On the eighth night of Navratri, men of the Barot community dressed in sarees take to the floor and dance in saree. The tradition is hailed as ‘Saduma na Garba’ and honours an ancient story of devotion penance and curse.
Notably an Instagram video has captured the men in sarees performing in the 200 year old ritual.
The reel was shared by Awesome Amdavad on Instagram, with the caption, “Saree Garba Ritual at Sadu Mata Ni Pol in Amdavad.”
Honouring Saduben’s ancient curse:
As per local beliefs, this ritual is more than just a dance. Over 200 years ago, a woman named Saduben asked the men of the Barot community to protect her when a Mughal nobleman wanted her as a concubine.
Sadly, the men did not help her, and she lost her child. Angry and sad, Saduben cursed the men, saying that their future generations would be cowardly. She then committed ‘sati’, leaving a lasting mark on the community.
Hence, every year, men perform Garba in sarees to show penance and respect for Saduben’s curse.
The video was shared on September 30, 2025, and has since gained 1.9 million views and over 60,000 likes.
No sooner the video went viral on social media, people praised the men for their courage and dedication.
One of the users, Divya R Mhaske, commented, “And some people were mocking a minister by making him wear a saree… They need to watch this video!!! Jai mata di”
A second user commented, “A 200-year-old tradition where men from the Barot community dress as women as an act of penance and apology for their inability to protect Saduma.”
Another user wrote-“this is to teach men humility and respect for women.
Similar to this also takes place in some pockets of Bengal.
Many viewers said it was inspiring to see history and culture celebrated in such a colourful and unique way.
News Edit KV Raman
