The word garba originates from the Sanskrit Garbha or Womb. The original dance form is therefore a celebration of life revolving around the Divine Mother, the central lamp or Deepam. It is the Divine Mother that is at the core and centre of creation and our life should be an attempt to align with the steps and rhythms of the Divine Shakti. The colourful dresses are a symbol of Nature. Later the dance got associated with fostering social unity wherein all come and dance together as children of the same Divine Mother.
As a symbol it represents the Power of the Eternal Feminine.
Dandiya is slightly different. It is more intense and symbolic of the battle between Ma Durga and the Asura.
Affectionately,
Alok Da
