Men don a saree for Garba in two-century-old Gujarati ritual

An unusual tradition persists in Ahmedabad's Shahpur neighbourhood during the festive season of Navratri, when men of the Barot community dress in sarees to perform the spirited folk dance garba. The practice, maintained for approximately two centuries, stands out as a distinctive ritual within Gujarat's diverse Navratri celebrations.

The Barot community, historically known for their role as genealogists and storytellers in Gujarati society, attributes the custom to the legend of Sadu Mata. According to local accounts, the ritual emerged from a vow of penance and remembrance tied to Sadu Mata's sacrifice. Each year, this commemorative act is performed during the auspicious eighth night of Navratri, when communities across Gujarat engage in festive garba celebrations.

The practice reflects the syncretic nature of regional traditions in Gujarat, where religious observance intersects with community identity and historical memory. For the Barot community, the ritual has evolved into a significant marker of cultural continuity, passed down through generations despite changing social contexts. The participation of men in this traditionally feminine attire during the sacred garba celebration challenges conventional gender expressions within festival observances.

Local residents and visitors to Shahpur during Navratri often witness the distinctive sight of men in sarees performing intricate garba steps, maintaining choreography and movements that have been refined over decades. The tradition remains largely confined to the specific locality and community, representing a unique cultural heritage within Gujarat's broader tapestry of Navratri customs.