International significance of garba

 Navratri is a festival celebrated all across India, most prominently in Gujarat and West bengal. The colourful costumes, graceful dancing and the devotion to goddess Durga combine to create an unforgettable experience. Indian communities around the world have been  celebrating this nine-day-long festival in an attempt to keep in touch with their roots. This is  how Navratri is celebrated all over the world.
Canada 

 Indians, are the largest visible minority in Canada, celebrating the festival of Navratri with great enthusiasm. It becomes an opportunity for the entire Indian community to reconnect with their culture, strengthening bonds within the community as well. 

United States of America
From Arizona and California to Georgia and New York, Indian communities across the United States have been celebrating Navratri for many years now. The festival ushers in a wave of excitement as everyone gets ready to be a part of the traditional revelry. The exuberance of these enthusiasts as they celebrate the festival with prayers, food, music and dance. The Newark Avenue in New Jersey, where almost 15,000 people, decked in all their finery, play garba on the street all night long.
Malaysia
Navratri celebrations are held on a large scale in Malaysia. The Indian community here goes all out to celebrate the festival in its true spirit. Prayers are held on all the nine nights, followed by the singing of bhajans (devotional songs). Cultural shows are also held to educate people about the significance of this vibrant festival. However, traditional music and dance are the highlights of the festival as people wearing brightly-coloured traditional clothes take to the dance floor with great gusto. The Shree Lakshmi Narayan Temple in Kuala Lumpur has Malaysia’s largest Navratri celebrations.

Pakistan

Believe it or not, Navratri is celebrated in Pakistan as well. Hindu communities ensure that the nine days of Navratri are full of fun and festivities. Devotional Bhajans, traditional food, music and dance comprise the celebrations here. Areas like Bahawalpur in eastern Pakistan or Hyderabad in southern Pakistan where enthusiasts wearing colourful costumes, dance to the tunes of garba music all night long. 

           Navratri celebrations outside India have managed to carry the spirit of this vivacious festival to all corners of the world. Kudos to our Indian brethren for helping the world discover India’s rich cultural legacy. 




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