Colorful beats and rhythmic footwork filled a third-floor room at the township library on Sept. 16 during a Garba and Dandiya Raas dance workshop for participants to celebrate Indian traditions and learn festive folk dances in time for Navratri, a significant Hindu festival that spans nine nights.
The event was organized and led by Sapana Raval, vice president of the Voorhees-Gibbsboro Lions Club and a committee member of the Voorhees Cultural and Diversity Committee. Known for her dedication to preserving and sharing the heritage of Indian culture in New Jersey, Raval said her goal was simple: to create a space where community members could connect through movement.
“I wanted to create a space where our community could come together to celebrate Indian culture, especially as we approach the Navratri festival,” Raval explained. “Folk dance is a vibrant expression of our heritage, and I saw an opportunity to share that joy and energy with others.”
The evening featured instruction in Garba, Dodhiya, Titodo and the lively Dandiya Raas dances. Raval broke each style into easy steps, ensuring both beginners and those with prior experience could participate.
“Garba celebrates the feminine divine, while Dandiya Raas involves playful interaction between participants, symbolizing the balance of energies,” Raval explained. “These traditions foster a sense of belonging and connection, especially during festive occasions like Navratri.”
Library participants – some trying the dances for the first time – praised Raval’s patient teaching style and enthusiasm.
One attendee described the evening as “exhilarating,” adding, “My favorite part was watching Sapana dance while we practiced. Her energy and expression captivated me. She’s not just an amazing dancer, but also a fantastic educator who truly inspires her students.”
Voorhees resident Deepika Nirmal agreed.
“My favorite part was when Sapana broke down the steps so simply that the whole group could enjoy dancing together,” Nirmal noted. “The evening was fantastic; Sapana’s energy, passion and skill made the whole experience unforgettable.”
For some, the workshop rekindled childhood memories. Others found the smaller, more personal setting gave them confidence to enjoy dances that had previously intimidated them.
“Earlier, I went to Garba events during festivals and felt lost in the big groups,” participant Anu Dammalapati pointed out. “In this workshop, Sapana’s methodical teaching and her cues about feeling the music instead of overthinking steps made such a difference.
“It really felt like the festival season had already begun.”
Beyond the steps and the music, Raval stressed the deeper importance of sharing cultural practices.
“Sharing traditional dances fosters appreciation for diverse cultures and strengthens community bonds,” she emphasized. “It allows us to celebrate our differences while also finding common ground.”
The response to the library program has inspired Raval to continue.
“The feedback has been encouraging, with participants expressing a desire for a series of workshops,” she offered. “I am committed to providing opportunities for everyone to deepen their understanding of this rich culture.”
As one library attendee put it, “Events like this create a fun way for people to connect, share culture and bond as a community.”
