Clarington Garba Fest brought families, music and traditional Indian dance to Bowmanville while raising $1,111 for the Bowmanville Hospital Foundation.
The outdoor celebration was held Saturday, September 26, at the Garnet B. Rickard Recreation Complex. Durham Post reported that experienced dancers and people trying Garba for the first time joined an evening of Garba and Dandiya dancing.
Festival combines culture and community support
Unity in Diversity, a non-profit community organization, organized the event. The group presented its $1,111 donation to the hospital foundation on stage as part of the program.
Organizer Pankaj Panchal said the festival was designed to do more than present music and dance. The event aimed to bring people together, celebrate culture, build friendships and support the community.
Local dignitaries, community representatives, sponsors and supporters attended. The gathering also highlighted the growing range of cultural traditions represented in Clarington and across Durham Region.
Live music and prizes fill the Bowmanville evening
Harita Desai and Pratik Peters performed live with support from local musicians. Organizers ultimately awarded 16 prizes, including two grand prizes, during breaks in the evening.
Unity in Diversity credited volunteers, performers, sponsors, community partners and attendees. The organization runs cultural and community events in Durham Region and says charitable giving is part of that work.
The Clarington Garba Fest took place under favourable weather and a bright harvest moon. Colourful attire, music and group dancing filled the grounds.
