Falguni Pathak the Dandiya Queen had over 3000 people dancing Garba and Raas in the Tsongas Arena at Lowell, MA on Oct 14 2008.  The dancers dressed in gorgeous outfits were swinging to the rhythms of Garbha and Raas for over four hours bringing a grand festive atmosphere.

The Mumbai based singer released her debut album in 1998, which was the first of at least a dozen bearing her name. She has also recorded numerous songs that have been featured in Bollywood movies. Most of the themes in her songs are about love. She has performed in many shows, and a number of her shows have run throughout the night, both in India and other countries. A powerful vocalist and energetic performer, backed by a band (called Ta Thaiyaa) that can number up to eighteen members, she regularly blends traditional styles with a more modern approach.

She has been popular in India as she entertains Indians for the nearly ten pious days of Indian Hindus known as Navratri (Nine nights). She is one the most popular singers specializing in the music of the Navratri festival.
Despite the scale of the event the logistics were perfect and one sense the excitement amongst the audience who were also the performers. The beautiful costumes worn by men, women and children added to glamour of the event. One could spot some of the most beautiful  and trendy chania challis and jewelry on the dancers.

For the organizer Ramu Patel, it was gratifying to see the event be so successful. The entire Patel family, including Ramu Patel’s grand-daughters were actively engaged in managing the event.

The popularity of this art form has caught on in New England as evidenced by the many large Garbha events are organized throughout the year. But this one certainly was the largest  arguably the best.

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