A 200-Year-Old Curse Is Atoned For By Men Dancing Garba

New Delhi, October 3, 2025: A captivating and deeply moving cultural tradition recently became a viral sensation, showcasing men performing the Garba dance while dressed in sarees. This unique ritual, known as Saduma na Garba, takes place annually in the Sadu Mata Ni Pol locality of Ahmedabad during the eighth night (Ashtami) of Navratri. The striking footage was widely shared across social media, where the attention of netizens was drawn to the powerful story of penance that lies behind the tradition.

The Origin: A 200-Year-Old Curse and Men Dancing Garba in Sarees: Watch

The roots of the tradition are steeped in a tragic legend dating back more than 200 years. According to local lore, a woman named Saduben (also referred to as Sadu Mata) was living in the community when a Mughal nobleman demanded her as a concubine. When her pleas for protection were made to the men of the Barot community, they failed to act. It is believed that due to this failure, she lost her child. Distraught and filled with anguish, Saduben reportedly cursed the men, declaring that their future generations would forever be marked by cowardice, before she committed sati. A small temple was later built in her memory, and the ritual has been performed ever since.

Also Read: Sunny Sanskari Day 1 Box Office: Varun-Janhvi Film Collects ₹9.25 Cr

The Ritual: Atonement and Humility Demonstrated

The act of men from the Barot community donning sarees is viewed not as a mere spectacle but as a powerful and profound act of penance and apology. The sarees are worn as a symbolic gesture of remorse for the failure of their ancestors to protect Saduben. By embracing the attire traditionally associated with women, humility and deep respect for the divine feminine are expressed. Every year, the men dance the Garba with precision and devotion around the Sadu Mata temple, with the belief that this centuries-old tradition serves as a means of atonement and helps to appease Sadu Mata’s enduring spirit. The video footage shows the rhythmic movements and dedication being exhibited by the men, capturing the essence of this historical custom.

Widespread Attention: A 200-Year-Old Curse and Men Dancing Garba in Sarees: Watch

The emotional depth and historical significance of the Saree Garba Ritual were recognized immediately by the online community. The video, which has been described as a profound blend of culture and conscience, garnered millions of views and thousands of comments. Netizens were struck by the men’s commitment and praised them for upholding such a distinct and meaningful cultural tradition. The viral footage has successfully brought national attention to this unique form of devotional expression, ensuring that the powerful story of Saduben and the community’s lasting act of penance is remembered by a new generation.