Jay Bhanushali compares Navratri to Tomorrowland: A festival like no other for Gujaratis

Jay Bhanushali, who has roots in Bhuj, Gujarat, holds Navratri close to his heart. Growing up, the festival was one of the highlights of his year. He recalls how, for middle-class kids of the ‘80s and ‘90s, Navratri was like today's clubbing scene, where they could dance with friends, family, and even strangers. “Navratri is like the Tomorrowland of Gujaratis,” Jay says, describing how everyone eagerly awaited the nine days of celebration. For him, it wasn’t just about fun but also about connecting with the community.

Navratri: A cultural and matchmaking hub

Jay believes Navratri can also be a way to showcase Indian culture to the world. He feels that promoting it to foreigners could boost tourism, especially in places like Ahmedabad, where the celebrations are grand. He fondly remembers how his family, being the only Gujarati household in their colony, would organize the celebrations. Though they didn’t have fancy sound systems or DJs, Jay would set up his music system and play cassettes, becoming the unofficial DJ for the neighborhood. People from all religions joined in the festivities, and the focus was always on fun rather than celebrity appearances.

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Navratri was also a matchmaking hotspot in Jay's community. Families would gather, and adults would look for prospective brides and grooms for their children. “It was like our version of a matrimonial site,” Jay quips. Though he hasn’t visited the community colony for Navratri in years, he hopes to do so this year.

Tara’s love for Navratri

Jay’s 5-year-old daughter, Tara, shares his excitement for Navratri. She loves to dance and dress up for the festival. Jay mentions that her "Gujju gene" comes out during this time, and she enjoys planning her outfits every day, often deciding what to wear based on the school’s color themes. Although Jay doesn’t get to choose her clothes anymore, he cherishes her enthusiasm for the festival.