PENNSYLVANIA, U.S.A., September 26, 2006: Hundreds of bare feet moved in step to a thunderous drum beat. Every color imaginable could be found on ornate gowns worn by women and girls dancing at Navaratri, a 9-day celebration that devotes three days of worship each to the Goddesses of valor, wealth and knowledge. The celebration is of happiness and worship by Hindus around the world. Manchester Township resident Nash Bhatt organized Saturday’s Navaratri dance, which was held at the Blast in Manchester Township. He sent e-mails to people in the Hindu community and expected about 100 to attend. He was surprised when nearly 500 people arrived. During the days of Navaratri, feasting and fasting take precedence over all daily activities for Hindus, Bhatt said. Evenings include a religious dance called “Garba” to worship Goddess Durga Maa. Men and women folk dance in a circle, sing “Garbas,” or traditional songs, he said. Springettsbury Township resident Jayesh Pathak said the festivals keep Hindu culture and tradition alive for Indians who live in America. “The moment you leave your own country…you can leave your customs behind,” said Pathak, who has lived in the United States for 26 years. Chirag Barot of Springettsbury Township said the festival was bittersweet. He enjoyed the local celebration, but it made him homesick for India, where he was raised. “It’s a big event,” he said. In India, workplaces and schools close for the holiday, and professional singers and dancers are hired to perform. “It’s a blast.”
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