'Gujarat garba atmosphere is amazing': Indian Idol fame singer says ‘Dancing with revellers is a joy, but I

Kanjilal said she has visited Surat and Gujarat many times and always enjoys singing and playing garba with people. “The people here are very cheerful and enthusiastic. Everyone sings and sways together,” she said. She added that this is her first Navratri performance, so she will try to give her best.

Speaking about the similarities between Bengal’s Durga Puja and Gujarat’s Navratri, Kanjilal said both festivals are grand in their own way. In Bengal, huge pandals are set up, the Goddess is installed and people go pandal-hopping. There is a craze for new looks every day. In Gujarat, too, people dress up in chaniya choli and traditional outfits.

The biggest similarity is that both festivals are about devotion to and worship of the Goddess,” she said. She added that she is keen to play garba herself.

Known for classical and melodious songs, Kanjilal said she usually practises a lot before shows. However, she has been travelling for the last three to four days and has been unwell, so she got little time. She prepared a few new Gujarati songs only a day earlier. “I will try to sing with all my strength on stage; the rest depends on the Goddess’s blessings,” she said.