GHarba Dance is originated from the state of Gujarat in India. The name is derived from a Sanskrit word Garbha meaning inner or central. It is one of the most important ceremonial dance of Gujarat. Garbha is performed around a deity or picture or central lit candle or some central light. The performance consists of a complex dance routine involving body movements, facial expressions and vocal sounds, all aimed to please the deity.
Garbha dance can be divided into two types. The first type is “Pancha karma”. This is the most popular type of dancing performed by both men and women. This involves chanting of a sacred mantra and other dancing movements. The second type is “Gharana”. This is the more difficult and expensive form, performed mostly by female artists.
It is one of the most important dances of Gujarat and is celebrated with great enthusiasm and pleasure. The dance takes place in many places such as temples, Gurudwaras (temples where religious ceremonies are done), parks, markets and roads. The most famous area for garbha dancing is the region of Mandawa state in Gujarat. It is performed at almost every public gathering, especially on Ganapati Puja (days leading up to the main festival of Ganapati) and at any gathering where there is a gathering of people of different religions or castes.