A colourful celebration of culture, community and connection at this year’s Garba Night

Students from Habs Girls and Habs Boys gathered in the Prevett Hall to celebrate the Hindu festival of Navratri. Filled with vibrant music, traditional Garba dancing and a wonderful sense of community, the evening brought together students from Years 10 to 13 for a joyful celebration of culture, connection and shared traditions.

The festival of Navrati lasts nine nights (Nav – nine, ratri – nights), honouring the goddess Durga and her victory over the demon Mahishasur. Students came dressed in traditional attire, and the hall was filled with energy from the moment the doors opened. Hosts Tia (13 JYB/PLT) and Samit (U6R2) opened the evening by leading the Gayatri Mantra, a sacred Hindu prayer that celebrates wisdom, enlightenment and gratitude.

The Garba Committee then guided students through Be-Taali and Tran-Taali, traditional forms of Garba dance characterised by two-clap and three-clap rhythmic patterns, helping everyone join in the celebrations.

A highlight of the evening was the Aarti, a Hindu act of worship involving devotional song and prayer, performed live by Kaylan (11S2) on vocals and harmonium, accompanied by Veer (L6H3) and Arjun (11S1) on tabla. This quieter, reflective moment brought the whole room together before the dancing continued.

After enjoying a selection of traditional refreshments, including samosas, dabeli (a spiced potato-filled bun) and dhokla (a savoury steamed snack made from fermented chickpea batter), students returned to the dance floor for dandiya, a lively folk dance performed with decorated sticks, and Ramjhanyu, a fast-paced traditional Gujarati dance.

The evening came to a close with the much-anticipated best dressed prizes and the distribution of prasad (blessed food). A huge thank you goes to all the staff who gave up their time to help with the evening, and to those whose months of planning made the night possible.

The event was a vibrant celebration of Navratri, bringing the school community together, with energy, dancing, fun and a strong sense of belonging. Students embraced the opportunity to celebrate cultural traditions, learn from one another and create a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere for all. It was a joyful reminder of the strength and richness of our diverse school community.