Maharashtra Govt Gives Green Light To Late-Night Dandiya

The Maharashtra government has said that Dandiya can be played till midnight but only on three days of Navratri. These days are Saturday, Sunday, and Monday. On the other days, the timing is restricted to 10 p.m.

BJP leader Praveen Darekar and MP Gopal Shetty were the ones asking the government to extend these hours. Gopal Shetty also wants people in private housing societies to play Dandiya till 11 PM and use loudspeakers every day of the festival.

Why Do We Play Dandiya During Navratri?

Now, let’s talk about why people even play Dandiya and Garba during Navratri. It’s all about honoring Maa Durga. These dances come from Gujarat but are now popular all over India during Navratri. 

The dances symbolize the fight between Maa Durga and the demon Mahishasura. Maa Durga won this battle, and so people danced to celebrate her victory.

Before starting the Garba dance, people light a lamp in an earthen pot. A silver coin is also placed inside it. This ritual is very meaningful. The lamp light is like the guiding light of the Goddess, and everyone dances around it.

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As for the costumes, women usually wear Garba or Dandiya-themed dresses. Men wear turbans and kurtas. These outfits are vibrant, symbolizing the energy of the divine battle between good and evil.

When you hear the sticks clash during the Dandiya dance, it’s not just for fun. That sound is said to bring positive energy. Even the claps during the Garba dance have a role; they help to spread this positive vibe.