Garba and Dandiya Raas have been integral to Navratri celebrations. These two dance forms have captivated our minds and filled us with joy and devotion. Both Garba and Dandiya Raas have deep spiritual roots, dating back to our ancient history and have successfully transmogrified over the years, from generations and across the globe. The terms Garba and Dandiya Raas are sometimes used interchangeably, but they are distinct. The former traditionally refers to the sacred hymns sung in honor of Ma Ambe (Goddess Durga). 
As a form of worship, Garba is performed around the Goddess’s murti, next to which is a perforated clay pot enclosing a lighted diya. The clay pot symbolizes a womb and the light emanating from the pot (Jyoti) symbolizes the life growing within. Since Garbha means womb in Sanskrit, this clay pot was called Garbha-deep. Interestingly, a similar clay pot is used for the ‘Ghat Sthapana’ for Durga Puja celebrations in North India.
Raas is another exciting dance performed during Navratri. The word Dandiya refers to the ornate bamboo sticks that the dancers hold in their hands. The Raas is also an energetic dance form, and through its performance, the devotees enact the ferocious battle Ma Ambe fought with Mahishasur, the sticks in their hands representing the swords of the Goddess and the terrain around them, the battlefield.
The flamboyance of Garba and Dandiya Raas dance attire
Dancing with the right attire enhances the essence of festivities to another level. As the dancers perform in colorful costumes to the beat of a dhol or drums, the men and women look vibrant and full of life in their outfits. During Navratri, the women wear chaniya choli, a three-piece traditional Gujarati outfit consisting of a choli or blouse, a chaniya, a long, flared skirt, and an embellished dupatta.
The whole costume is combined with silver or black metal chains, big earrings, Kamarband, Bajuband, Maang Tikka, and Juttis. The men performing the Garba wear a kediyu, a short round kurta, kafni pajamas, along with a pagdi on the head and mojri or nagras.
Changing landscape due to pandemic and its aftermath
Covid brought a different perspective to our lives. For the last two years, everything was at a standstill, and finally this year in 2022, we can change the status quo and rekindle the spirit of Navratri again. It is time to unleash our creative talents in all spheres – be it the lights and decorations, dances, cuisine, and festival dressing or get-togethers.
Calling family members and friends to have a get-together would be the best way to celebrate Sharad Navratri. The essence of Navratri is truly enjoyed in the company of loved ones who come together for Dandiya Raas and Garba.
If you’re arranging a Navratri night, it is advisable to send the invitations well in advance. One way to do so is by creating beautiful dandiya night video invitations. You can look into the carefully curated list of Selfanimate’s Garba video invites and choose the best one for your use. Edit the template with your own images, information and background music to make the video invite look customized to your event. Share the online invite with friends and family on WhatsApp or on social media and create the excitement of the festival in advance.
Check out the editable Selfanimate Dandiya party invites
Even for businesses, this would be a perfect occasion to show appreciation towards the hard work and effort put in by the employees and the love and support shown by the clients. You can greet your clients, employees and their families, with a Happy Navaratri with beautiful video greetings that have your company logo on it. All you must do is edit the ready-made video greeting template with your company logo, message and photos.
Check out the Selfanimate corporate Navratri video greeting templates.
Wrapping up
After waiting for 2 years, we are finally ready to resume our Navratri festivities with great fervor and enthusiasm. Let’s make it better by adding a unique blend of surprises and innovations along the way and let’s make memorable occasions for our loved ones. Selfanimate online video maker helps you add that personal touch to your video invitations and greetings. Create an unforgettable experience with Garba and Dandiya Raas invitations and let the mood of Navaratri set in.
