For actor Niti Taylor, Navratri brings back childhood memories of colourful outfits, lively garba nights and carefree celebrations. But beyond the festive excitement, she believes the occasion should also prompt a deeper conversation about women’s safety and respect.
With her Gujarati roots, Taylor has a longstanding connection with the festival, which she associates with nine days of music, dancing, devotion and positivity.
Although work commitments now make it difficult to celebrate every day, she still tries to take part in the festivities whenever possible.
The actor particularly enjoys garba, a traditional dance performed during Navratri. Her favourite tracks include ‘Nagada Sang Dhol’, ‘Chogada’ and ‘Dholida’. She also enjoys attending Mumbai’s large-scale celebrations at Nesco and singer Falguni Pathak’s garba events.
However, Taylor said the celebrations should not overshadow concerns about women’s safety. She expressed disappointment that women still have to worry about their safety at events celebrating feminine strength and power.
Every woman, she said, should be able to go out, dress as she chooses, dance and return home safely. She also called for proper security arrangements, monitoring and trained staff at event venues.
“Respecting women shouldn’t be limited to nine days of worshipping a goddess. It should be something we practise every single day,” Taylor said.
When it comes to festive fashion, the actor prefers colourful traditional outfits, particularly chaniya cholis, paired with statement earrings and bangles. She also values comfort, especially when she plans to dance for hours.
Taylor believes garba’s appeal extends beyond regional and cultural boundaries. She enjoys neighbourhood celebrations where people of different ages come together to dance and share the festive spirit, regardless of their background or dancing skills.
