Garbis depicting the importance of stars and the universe are ready: On the eve of Navratri, the Prajapati community of Vadodara has created attractive garbis, not only in India but also abroad

Vadodara is witnessing a wonderful confluence of religious faith and traditional art ahead of the holy festival of Navratri. The cultural city of Vadodara is famous for its grand, melodious and cultural festivals across the country and abroad with its grand, melodious and cultural values. This year too, as the festival of Navratri is approaching, there is a huge attraction in the markets for garbis made from clay and unique designs. The garbis available in the market are not just a decoration or a means of festivities, but they are woven with religious and Vedic references. Structures depicting the religious significance of 27 Nakshatras, four Vedas and 108 universes Garbi has a special significance in Navratri. Although in recent big Garba events, Garbi has now been pushed to the side. In previous years, devotees used to play Garba around poverty. At present, Garbi is being made by clay artisans in Vadodara. Especially clay garbis are being carved with structures depicting the religious significance of 27 stars, four Vedas and 108 universes. The special holes made in the earthen garba and the lamp lit inside it show that the human body is a garba (pot) and the soul inside it is like an unbroken flame. Devotees are already flocking to buy garbis with such spiritual concepts. An excellent means of employment and empowerment for women The process of making clay garbis is not limited to religious beliefs only, but it has also become an excellent medium of employment and empowerment for local women. In this seasonal activity that begins before Navratri, women are involved in shaping, decorating them, decorating them with various colours and decorating them with pearls and pearls. Through this work, many women at the local level are becoming self-reliant and are financially supporting their families. Poverty in Vadodara is prevalent abroad The demand for these carefully prepared traditional garbis in Vadodara is not only seen at the local level but also among NRI Gujaratis and Indians living abroad in large quantities. Vadodara's clay garbis have always been the center of great attraction for the players who come from abroad to play Navratri and devotees of Jagdamba. Even though the trend of big pandals and grand Garba festivals has increased in today's time, the religious and devotional value of these small clay garbis remains intact even today. Overall, this festival of Navratri in Vadodara is emerging as a 'Triveni Sangam' of religious faith, preservation of ancient art and culture and women's employment, which further enhances the identity of the cultural city.