On Sept. 29, 2022, the National Honor Society of JFKMHS hosted a Garba night on the softball field from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m., where students gathered to celebrate Navratri. Students from all cultures joined and made an effort to learn Garba and commemorate Navratri. 

There were many preparations made beforehand to make the event happen.

“We had a decorating company come and set up a special area for henna and a backdrop with umbrellas, fabric and colors that students could take pictures in front of and a DJ… It took about three weeks,” Ms. Kurowsky stated.

Students participated by dancing in various styles within a circle. To finish the night off, everyone got together in a mosh pit where they played Bollywood music and danced. 

Garba originated in Gujarat, India; it honors feminine divinity and Goddess Durga every year during the fall. Goddess Durga is worshiped because she killed the demon, Mahishasura, in a nine-day battle, which is why Navratri lasts for nine days. During the occasion, women wear traditional garments called chaniya cholis, while the men wear kurtas. 

As the celebration continues, Garba remains a dance that symbolizes womanhood and femininity.