Traditional dance group sets example by training students from different religions

Setting an example of religious amity, a dance group at Surat imparts training to students from different religions and communities in traditional 'Garba' dance.

The traditional Garbas are held in Gujarat during the nine-day festival 'Navratri', in which they pray to different forms of goddess Durga.

Dhaval Rana, a dance trainer, runs a group known as 'Panghat' and accepts students from different communities and religions and trains them in Garba and Dodhiya. The group also accepts foreign nationals in their school.

Rana trains enthusiasts from all religions. The group also takes part during the Navratra celebrations in the state.

"Last year, we were told that the Muslims should not get entry. There was ban on entry of Muslims at the major grounds like Chamber of Commerce, but in the end, all turned out well and everyone supported them (the Muslims). We all supported them and asserted that they should be allowed to enter," said Rana.

Students said that they did not face any discrimination on the basis of their religion and caste during the training.

"I like doing Garba and although I am from a different religion I come here daily to learn. My message is that if someone is interested in learning something, his/her family should be supportive. My message is: if you are interested in something, you should advance in that very field," said Shehnaz Kapadia, a student.

Just days before, several Hindu organisations had imposed ban on Muslims from entering traditional dance venues in Mandvi city of the state during Navratri.