Associated with colors, its vibrancy and the high spirited vibe through the nine days of Navratri, Garba and the fashion associated with it is nothing less than vivacious. As one of the most loved celebrations on the festive calendar, Navratri days are filled with pujas and garba nights. Needless to say, each event requires an outfit. During garba, both men and women dance in honor of the Goddesses of the Hindu mythology. But the beauty of Garba extends beyond its rhythmic dance moves; it encompasses cultural, social, and spiritual dimensions that make it a unique and cherished celebration.
Introduction to Garba & Navratri Outfits
Navratri, which translates to ‘Nine Nights’ in Sanskrit, is a Hindu festival dedicated to the worship of the Goddess Durga. It spans nine nights and is celebrated with great fervor and enthusiasm across India. The festival typically occurs in the month of Ashwin (September-October) according to the Hindu calendar. Dedicated to the worship of the nine avatars of Goddess Durga, who is considered the supreme feminine deity in Hinduism, the festival celebrates the divine feminine energy and power.
According to Hindu mythology, Navratri marks the victory of Goddess Durga over the demon Mahishasura and the festival symbolizes the triumph of good (represented by the goddess) over evil forces. An integral part of Navratri celebrations is Dandiya and Garba dances, especially in Gujarat. These dances are a form of joyful expression and are performed in large groups during the festival nights. The celebration demands vibrant and colorful traditional attires to be worn during Garba, adding to the visual spectacle. The garments showcase intricate embroidery, mirror work, and traditional prints, honoring the rich cultural heritage of Gujarat.
When choosing a Garba outfit for men, it’s essential to consider the cultural context and the energetic nature of the dance. A classic, easy going outfit idea would be to opt for a traditional kurta and churidar. One can go for a vibrant and well-fitted kurta with traditional embroidery or mirror work. Bright colors like red, yellow, or green are popular. The traditional Gujarati attire would be Kedia and dhoti. Kedia is a traditional Gujarati blouse with intricate embroidery, while dhoti pants complement the Kedia. Other men’s garba outfit ideas would be Pathani suit, Bandhgala jacket paired with dhoti, a colorful waistcoat set, and Angarkha style kurta. This one comes with its overlapping panels and ties, and is a classic choice.
Traditional Garba Outfit Elements
When looking for garba outfits, ensure that they are composed of breathable and comfortable fabrics, as Garba involves energetic dancing. The key is to embrace vibrant colors, traditional patterns, and festive embellishments to celebrate the spirit of Garba. Some traditional elements include a turban or safa, ethnic jewelry and traditional footwear like mojris or juttis. Men may even choose to wear traditional jewelry such as a kada (bangle), necklace, or earrings.
An integral part of the men’s garba outfit is Kediyu. The Kediyu is a distinctive traditional Garba outfit that is a short, pleated jacket with an embroidered front panel. The Kediyu is often paired with a churidar or pajama. The elaborate embroidery on the garment adds a festive touch to the outfit. Men may also wear brightly colored kurtas, a long tunic-style shirt that is a staple in traditional Indian menswear. A Bandhani (a traditional tie-and-dye technique) dupatta (scarf) is also a common accessory for men’s Garba outfits.
Modern Takes on the Garba Outfit
Modern interpretations of Garba outfits for men often blend traditional elements with contemporary styles to create a unique and stylish look. Modernizing your Garba outfit is about personal style and comfort. You can mix and match elements while respecting the festive and cultural essence of the occasion. The key is to feel confident and enjoy the celebrations in an outfit that reflects your individuality.
A modern take on traditional men’s garba outfit would be opting for a contemporary kurtas. Choose contemporary cuts, asymmetrical hems, or interesting necklines and experiment with different fabrics like silk blends, cotton, or linen in vibrant colors. The Multi Floral Printed Kurta Set is one of our favorite vibrant colored Kurta. Instead of traditional churidars or pajamas, one can pair their kurta with Jodhpuri pants. These have a modern and sophisticated look, and they add a touch of royal elegance. To layer your ensemble, consider wearing a printed or embroidered jacket over your kurta like the Periwinkle Velvet Embroidered Jacket With Kurta Set. Jackets with modern cuts and detailing are in vogue. One can even consider wearing a tailored Bandhgala-style kurta with a mandarin collar for a modern and suave appearance. This style works well for those who prefer a more structured look.
Color trends in Garba Outfits
The color trends for Garba outfits often follow the vibrant and lively palette associated with traditional Indian festivals. While there are no strict rules, certain colors are commonly favored during Garba celebrations. Here are some color trends that you might find in Garba outfits:
- Bright Navratri Colors: Shades like red, yellow, and green are classic colors symbolizing passion, positivity and new beginnings.
- Contrasting Combinations: Garba outfits often feature contrasting colors or pops of bright hues to create a visually appealing look.
- Pastel Hues: Pastel shades add a touch of elegance and are becoming increasingly popular for Garba events.
- Rich Jewel Tones: Royal blue, emerald green, and deep purples exude richness and sophistication.
- Metallic Accents: Metallic accents like gold and silver, either in embroidery or accessories, add a touch of glamor.
- Neon and Fluorescent Shades: For those who love to make a bold statement, neon colors like neon pink, orange, and green have become a trendy choice.
Remember that personal preference plays a significant role in choosing colors for Garba outfits. It’s common for individuals and groups to coordinate or choose colors based on the theme of the day during Navratri. The key is to celebrate with joy and wear colors that make you feel festive and spirited.