Why do men dress up as women for Garba during Navratri in Ahmedabad?

Ahmedabad: As Navratri festivities begin across India on Thursday, a special tradition in Ahmedabad's old city is catching everyone’s eye. In Sadu Mata Ni Pol, a 200-year-old custom takes place on the eighth night of Navratri. Men from the Barot community wear sarees and perform Garba, a folk dance, to honour an ancient curse.

This tradition is more than just a dance; it represents penance and tells a story of devotion and unique customs passed down through generations. According to local legend, the ritual began over 200 years ago when a woman named Saduben sought help from the Barot men against a Mughal nobleman. When the men failed to protect her, she tragically lost her child and cursed them, saying their descendants would be cowards.

Every year on the night of Ashtami, Sadu Mata Ni Pol, home to over 1,000 residents, comes alive with this ritual. Crowds gather in the narrow lanes to watch men twirl in sarees to the lively beats of Sheri Garba. A temple was built to honour Sadu Mata and lift the curse, and on this special night, men dress as women to perform Garba as an act of atonement.

While some may view this as a challenge to gender norms, for the Barot community, it is a gesture of humility and respect. Participants believe it helps atone for past sins and honours the blessings from Sadu Mata. Many men who have prayed for personal wishes, such as business success or health, take part to give thanks when their prayers are answered.

The Barot community is known for its role as genealogists and storytellers, preserving family histories and cultural traditions. Though their roles have changed over time, they remain a vital part of Gujarat’s cultural landscape, especially during festivals like Navratri.

One participant shared that he has worn a saree for the past five years to express gratitude to Sadu Mata. After wishing for prosperity in his business and the blessing of a son, he felt blessed by the goddess. For him, this tradition connects the community to its roots and allows them to show thanks for the blessings they receive.

The ritual is not only about lifting the curse but also about honouring the goddess who has protected families for centuries. On this night, Sadu Mata Ni Pol becomes a site of devotion, with men of all ages dressed in colourful sarees, paying homage as an act of faith.

Ahmedabad, India’s first UNESCO World Heritage City, is rich in history and tradition. The sight of men performing Garba in sarees is just one way the city celebrates its cultural heritage, showcasing the resilience and devotion of the Barot community.

Agency