Gujarat: The Epicentre of Garba
In Gujarat, Navratri is synonymous with Garba and Dandiya Raas. The state, especially cities like Ahmedabad and Vadodara, becomes one massive dance floor. Preparations are in full swing for nightly events where thousands, dressed in colourful chaniya
cholis and kediyus, will gather to dance in concentric circles around an idol of the Goddess. In Ahmedabad, the GMDC Ground is set to host the official Vibrant Navratri Festival, featuring a new amphitheatre-style Garba area, food stalls, and handicraft exhibitions. Vadodara, known for its more traditional Garba, will see huge gatherings at venues like the Navlakhi Ground and near the majestic Laxmi Vilas Palace. These events are not just about dance; they are a full-sensory experience, combining devotion, music, and community spirit under the autumn sky. Special fasting thalis featuring dishes made from amaranth, buckwheat, and water chestnut flour will also be a highlight at local eateries.
Kolkata: The Artistic Splendour of Durga Puja
In West Bengal, the festival is celebrated as Durga Puja, and Kolkata turns into a living art gallery. The city is already buzzing as artisans in Kumartuli give final touches to thousands of clay idols. The main attraction is the pandal-hopping, where communities compete to create the most innovative and elaborate temporary temples for Goddess Durga. For 2026, many pandals are focusing on themes of sustainability, using biodegradable materials like bamboo and jute. Others are recreating ancient temple architecture, offering a glimpse into India's heritage. For instance, the renowned Santosh Mitra Square committee has announced a grand 'Vande Mataram' theme. The streets will be filled with the aroma of festive delicacies, from puchkas to elaborate Bengali sweets, as millions of people navigate the city to witness this grand spectacle of art and devotion.
Mysuru: A Royal Dasara Spectacle
Down south, Mysuru in Karnataka celebrates Navratri as Dasara, or 'Nada Habba' (the state festival), with a distinct royal touch that dates back centuries. The entire city is preparing for ten days of grandeur. The highlight is the magnificent Mysuru Palace, which will be illuminated by nearly 100,000 light bulbs every evening, creating a breathtaking sight. The grand finale on Vijayadashami is the 'Jumboo Savari', a spectacular procession featuring caparisoned elephants, with the lead elephant carrying a 750-kilogram golden howdah holding the idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari. Other major attractions include the Aahara Mela, a massive food festival at Maharaja's College Ground, cultural programs with classical music and dance, and a thrilling torchlight parade to conclude the festivities.
Delhi: A Melting Pot of Traditions
The nation's capital showcases a beautiful confluence of Navratri traditions from across the country. Preparations are underway for large-scale Ramlila performances, a theatrical retelling of the Ramayana, with one of the most prominent being held at the grounds of the Red Fort. These nightly plays culminate in the burning of giant effigies of Ravana on Dussehra. Simultaneously, the city’s large Gujarati community brings its own flavour with numerous Garba and Dandiya nights. Venues like Dilli Haat and grounds in Dwarka are gearing up to host events with live music and energetic dancing. Eateries across the city are also curating special Navratri menus, offering a wide array of delicious fasting foods, making the festival a truly diverse cultural and culinary experience in the heart of India.
