Community enjoys inaugural Garba and Diwali Night

By Tanvi Ravilla ‘24 and Jaiden Patel ‘24

Desi Moms are dressed in festive garb as they pose in front of the photo booth at the event.

Desi Club conducted the first-ever Wardlaw + Hartridge Garba on Friday, October 21, 2022 in Laidlaw Gym. An event organized constructed with diligent effort from Desi Club leaders Raiya Patel ‘24, Naischa Puri ‘23, and Loveleen Sindhar ‘23 and members along with unwavering support from the Desi Moms and W+H faculty, Garba was a huge success and warmly welcomed around 300 people to partake in the traditional Gujarati event.

Native to the western state of Gujarat, Garba is an Indian folk dance originating back to at least the 15th century. The ritual performance honors the mother goddess, known as Durga, during Navratri, a nine-day festival dedicated to her fight against an evil demon, Mahishasura. The event brings together a community of people to celebrate the victory of “Good over Evil.”

At Wardlaw + Hartridge, Garba was commemorated by a large, diverse group of students, friends, and families who all came together to partake in the festival of lights.

Laidlaw Gym was adorned with traditional Indian decorations: diyas, flowers, and brightly colored shawls. The shawls - intricately designed - were draped like saris on the left and right walls, as garlands of marigold flowers, symbolizing bright and positive energy, were hung all around the gym. Rows of LED lights and diyas were set to light up the celebration. In the center of the gym sat the beautifully set up mandap, a Hindu altar holding ornate artifacts.

“The Desi Club is in awe of this community and the love and support from W+H,” said Desi Club co-leader Raiya Patel ‘24. “The event surpassed our expectations and goals.”

As more people joined in the festivities, the DJ compiled a mix of popular Bollywood songs as well as traditional folk music. He was also accompanied by a dhol player, who masterfully performed with the percussion instrument.

As the beautiful night led on, many people joined in another traditional Gujarati dance called raas, where dancers perform in two lines with dandiya sticks. Many people who did not know raas were easily taught by the community around them, allowing others to engage in the culture and lively atmosphere of Garba.

Right after, almost everyone participated in a choreographed dance to the song “Hamu Kaka Baba Na Poriya Ne” which was performed by Desi Club members and W+H students at the Upper School Meeting, just that morning.

Along with the ongoing Garba in Laidlaw, refreshments were offered for purchase as many Desi Club members and parent volunteers served food in the AP Room. Most of the Indian cuisine was homemade and consisted of paneer tikka masala, samosas, dabeli, and a variety of Indian and American desserts.