The demand for traditional garba and dandiya outfits has seen a significant increase this year, with rental bookings doubling compared to last year, shopkeepers told Metro life. They attribute this surge to the growing popularity of garba-dandiya nights, particularly among the younger generation, ahead of the nine-day Navratri festival that begins on October 3.
Growing Popularity Beyond Traditional Communities
While garba and dandiya have historically been popular among the Gujarati and Rajasthani communities, social media has played a pivotal role in making these folk dances a cultural phenomenon across India. “Navratri has become a cultural melting pot,” said a boutique owner on Church Street. “People from Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Andhra Pradesh are also renting these outfits.”
Varied Rental Options for All Budgets
Shops across Bengaluru offer a wide range of rental options to cater to the growing demand. Basic outfits for women (ghaghra-choli) and men (kediya-dhoti) start at ₹250 per day, while more elaborate, embellished outfits can cost up to ₹1,400 per day. The outfits range from simple cotton textiles with mirror work to luxurious silk attire with intricate embroidery, kundan, and zardozi detailing.
Meena Sharma, a boutique owner in Ashok Nagar, said, “We mostly get orders from women in their mid-20s. The heavier sets are usually booked a month in advance, particularly by those participating in dance competitions at venues like Jayamahal Palace.”
One Outfit or Nine?
While many customers rent a single set for a one-time visit to garba-dandiya venues, about a quarter opt for nine different sets to wear over the nine days of Navratri. The trend of renting multiple outfits has become popular among those who want to make the most of the festival’s vibrant atmosphere. The shop owners noted that many of their customers are looking for stylish, standout outfits to wear at high-profile venues.
A Booming Business
The increased popularity of garba-dandiya nights, including at apartment complexes and new venues, has also contributed to the surge in demand for traditional attire. A manager at a clothing store in Cubbonpete mentioned that they have been renting out nearly 200 sets a day this season, a significant rise from previous years. “More venues are hosting garba-dandiya nights compared to last year,” he said, highlighting the event’s increasing appeal across Bengaluru.
A Festival for Everyone
The growing demand for traditional garba-dandiya outfits reflects the cultural expansion of the Navratri festival. With its roots in Gujarat and Rajasthan, garba and dandiya have now become a beloved part of the celebrations for people from all parts of India. The surge in rentals signifies not just a trend, but the growing interest of young people in engaging with the festival in a meaningful, participatory way. Whether it’s through dance competitions or casual get-togethers, the festival has transcended its traditional boundaries, drawing more people into the celebrations every year.
As Navratri approaches, the demand for rental outfits is expected to rise even further, cementing the festival’s status as one of the most widely celebrated cultural events in India.