Garbas no more a ‘closeted’ affair for LGBTQIA+

Times News NetworkVadodara: For years, garbas were a ‘closeted' affair for members of the queer community, who used to celebrate Navratri festivities within a closed hall in fear of judgment and discrimination.However, Gujarat's cultural capital is now offering open spaces where LGBTQIA+ individuals can join the celebrations of the world's longest dance festival without any inhibitions.After the success it received last year, the LGBTQIA+ "Inclusive Vibrant Garba Night" was held in the city on Sunday evening at the Sayaji Vihar Club near Khanderao Market.The LGBTQIA individuals moved gracefully in sync with each other, their movements fluid and expressive. With every turn and step, they embraced their identities and celebrated their diversity with pride. As the annual festival of Navratri approached, the members of the Vikalp Women's Group were excited to continue their tradition of celebrating garba with their queer community. Indira Pathak and Maya Sharma, the dynamic duo who founded the organization, had worked hard to create a safe space for LGBTQIA individuals to come together and enjoy the festivities without fear of judgment. Over the years, as more LGBTQIA+ members began to come together, the need for an open space surfaced. Vikalp's founding members started to look for a safe open space and raise funds for it."Last year, Vikalp organised the first-ever all-inclusive garba, which was kept open to all so that more allies could join the cultural festivities and bond with the community," said Vaishali Zararia, a member of Vikalp and a SAATHII consultant."Mostly in garbas, everyone is just dancing with their groups. But here, everyone is so warm and friendly. The whole environment had a positive vibe. More people, especially allies, were eager to join the festivities, making the world a more inclusive place," she said.
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