Growing up in Punjab, Navratri for Kritika Kamra was primarily about temple visits and quiet devotion. However, her move to Mumbai 15 years ago transformed her perception of the festival. “I discovered Garba when I came to Mumbai, and it felt like such a wonderful way to celebrate,” she shares. Now, the anticipation for the festival is palpable among her Gujarati friends, with discussions revolving around new outfits, performance venues, and the ever-popular Falguni Pathak.
Beyond the dance floor, the song ‘Kamariya’ from her 2018 film ‘Mitron’ holds a special place in her Navratri celebrations. “That song created a unique connection for me with Navratri,” Kritika explains. “Every year, no matter where I am, I hear it playing constantly. It feels like it’s played at least once every night.” She admits she never anticipated the song’s immense popularity during the festival, noting, “When you’re creating something, you hope for success, but you never truly know. It’s a take on a beloved folk song, but I think it became the film’s biggest success, with people remembering ‘Kamariya’ most fondly.”
While she might not be a Garba expert, Kritika playfully describes herself as a good follower with a few well-practiced steps. “I know my tricks, so I can blend in and follow along really well,” she says with a laugh. Food also plays a significant role in her festivities, with a special appreciation for traditional sweets and dishes prepared during this time.
What truly resonates with Kritika about Navratri in Mumbai is the strong sense of community. “Mumbai really brings people together during festivals,” she observes. “Even if you don’t know your neighbours well, people connect during these times, sharing responsibilities. It’s a lovely contrast to how isolated we can sometimes feel in our daily lives.”
The festival also serves as a powerful reminder for Kritika about the celebration of womanhood. “Our culture has always recognized and celebrated the strength of women,” she reflects. “We need to remember the deep understanding of feminine energy that existed in our history and mythology. Today, we sometimes try to categorize women, but it’s important to celebrate their multifaceted nature.”
Kritika highlights Mumbai’s inclusive spirit during Navratri, noting the vibrancy and warmth shared among people, regardless of their background. She compares the large-scale Garba events in the city to concerts, emphasizing the genuine connection and camaraderie felt among attendees, even strangers.
Reflecting on her Punjabi roots, where Navratri traditions differ, Kritika appreciates how Mumbai’s celebrations showcase India’s cultural diversity. “We have things like Mata ki chowki, but not Garba,” she says. “Seeing how everyone comes together to celebrate the same festival in different ways really highlights our unity as Indians. Each tradition has its own rich meaning and history.”