Ahmedabad: For nine nights, sleep took a backseat as Amdavadis surrendered themselves to the rhythm of garba. After all, it was Navratri, around which people plan their whole year. On Monday night, even when the last beats from dhols faded into the early morning hours, weary feet refused to stop, knowing that the next Navratri is a whole year away.After the dancing, Amdavadis were pulled in for another cherished ritual — enjoying piping hot fafda and jalebis slick with ghee and syrup. “Every year, after we leave the garba venue, the next destination is a jalebi-fafda shop. It is a celebration of sorts as we gorge on the delicacies before the city wakes up to long queues on Dussehra,” said Tanmay Dave.
Farsan shops in Ahmedabad worked overtime to cater to Amdavadis’ love for fafda, a Dussehra staple
After dancing their heart’s fill, Amdavadis headed straight to shops selling jalebis and fafda, a sweet-savoury combo without which Dussehra in Gujarat is incomplete
The spiritual significance of the last night of Navratri was visible in special prayers and Navami rituals organised at temples where devotees gathered to offer gratitude and seek blessings from Maa Durga. In Gujarat, Navratri is not just an expression of hailing this divine embodiment of strength, courage and compassion, but it also showcases women’s safety and inclusiveness.On Tuesday evening, the city will come alive with Ravan Dahan, where towering effigies of Ravana, his son Meghnad and brother Kumbhakarna will be consigned to flames at venues including the grounds near Doordarshan Tower and Kankaria football ground, symbolising the triumph of good over evil, of hope over despair.
An effigy of Ravana is erected using a crane at a ground in Ahmedabad on Monday, Oct 19, the eve of Dussehra
Considered one of the most auspicious days in the Hindu calendar, Dussehra is also associated with fresh beginnings. Many choose the day to start new ventures, move into a new home or make important purchases, believing it brings prosperity and success.Meanwhile, for enthusiasts, more garba opportunities remain — the tradition of Ratri after Navratri and Sharad Purnima.
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