Ritualistic worship of Dipagarbha: The custom of garbha started in Gujrat (a state in India) to symbolize the divine maternal energy (matrushakti). This was done by worshipping a lamp placed in an earthen pot with many openings (dipagarbha). The word 'garbha', 'garbho', 'garbo' or 'garba' takes its origin from this ritual of dipagarbha to represent the divine aspect of multiplicity (reproductive energy).

Garbha dance: The garbha dance originated in praise of the various movements of the female deity, Mahishasurmardini, Who delivered the people from suffering by slaying ('mardini' of) the evil demon Mahishasur during the period of Navratri. The stick used during the Dandiya dance is representative of the weapon Khadga in the hand of the Goddess. However, in recent years, this dance has taken on the form of a social event, used for entertainment, with people often forgetting its spiritual significance. In fact, several incorrect customs have seeped into the public celebration Navratri:

	Expensive decorations are done, without much thought to the sattvikta (spiritual purity) of the decorations.
	Exorbitant fees are charged to admit people to the garbha or dandiya dance venues, which have taken on the form of dance halls, and play film songs instead of devotional hymns or bhajans written by Saints, etc. Vulgar songs, gaudy dressing up, heavy advertising, etc., clearly states the influence of western culture on this ritual. Encroachment on Indian culture is a loss to nationality.
	The actual dance, too, is close to western dance, compared to the traditional, reverent movements due to the spiritual movements of the slaying of Mahishasur.
	Teenage pregnancies in Gujarat and other parts of India are reported to be the highest after Navratri.

    It is ironic that the festival represents the removal of negative energies and raja-tama, when in reality these very elements increase tremendously due to spiritually incorrect celebration of the festival.

    The Sanatan is taking active steps in this area for the last two years by spreading awareness about the spiritually correct celebration of this festival, to ensure maximum spiritual benefit to each participant and the society. You, too, can act to encourage the spiritually correct and devotional celebration of Navratri at your home and in your area.