Ahmedabad, Oct 11 — Gujarat's traditional 'Garba' has gained international recognition through the Vibrant Navratri Festival initiated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel said on Sunday while inaugurating the 2026 edition of the festival at GMDC Ground in Ahmedabad.
The festival, organised by the state government's Tourism Department, was inaugurated in the presence of ambassadors from around six countries, along with state and local representatives.
Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Patel said the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit had provided an international platform for the state's trade, industry and entrepreneurial spirit.
He linked the promotion of Gujarat's cultural heritage with the broader vision of development and the preservation of traditions.
Referring to initiatives such as Vibrant Navratri, Somnath Swabhiman Parv, the Statue of Unity, Rann Utsav, the Ambaji Corridor and the hoisting of the flag at Pavagadh after 500 years, the Chief Minister said: "These efforts reflected the vision of "Virasat Bhi, Vikas Bhi (heritage as well as development)."
He also referred to the Kedarnath Dham and Kashi Vishwanath Corridor projects, describing them as part of the wider emphasis on cultural heritage and cultural nationalism.
"This year's Vibrant Navratri Festival is particularly significant as it coincided with the completion of 25 years of PM Modi's journey in public service, dedication and service to the nation," he said.
He prayed that Adi Shakti Maa Ambaji would bless everyone and help Gujarat continue to contribute to the Prime Minister's vision of "Viksit Bharat 2047".
Alongside the festival inauguration, CM Patel opened an exhibition showcasing home-based industry products and handicrafts made by women associated with self-help groups and Sakhi Mandals.
The exhibition was organised by the Gujarat Livelihood Promotion Company.
The Chief Minister interacted with the women participating in the exhibition and enquired about their products.
Garba, a central part of Gujarat's folk traditions, remains a key feature of the state's Navratri celebrations.
The Vibrant Navratri Festival seeks to provide a platform for the traditional dance form while bringing attention to Gujarat's cultural heritage before an international audience.