Here is the real ‘woman’, men of this Indian village wear women’s clothes, perform Garba in Navratri due to a 200 year old curse

Ahmedabad. As Navratri celebrations began across the country on October 3, a unique tradition in the heart of the old city of Ahmedabad has caught everyone’s attention. At Sadu Mata Ni Pol, a 200-year-old ritual is performed every year on the eighth night of Navratri, in which men from the Barot community, wearing sarees, perform Garba to honor an ancient curse.

According to local lore, this tradition began 200 years ago, when a woman named Saduben sought protection from a Mughal chieftain among the men of the Barot community. This Mughal chief wanted to make that woman his mistress. Unfortunately, the men were not able to save her, due to which the woman lost her child. In her grief, Sadhuben cursed the men that their descendants would suffer like cowards and die before committing ‘Sati’.

On Ashtami night, Sadu Mata Ni Pol, home to more than 1000 residents, becomes a center of vibrant activity. The narrow streets and traditional houses create a beautiful atmosphere, where crowds gather and men clad in sarees dance to the beat of Sheri Garba, a folk dance full of cultural significance.

A temple was built to pacify the spirit of Sadu Mata and remove the curse. Every year, men of the community perform Garba wearing sarees and consider it as a form of atonement. According to IANS, this enduring tradition attracts visitors from across the city who are eager to witness this powerful tradition and display of devotion.

Although from a modern perspective, men wearing women’s clothes may seem like a challenge to gender norms, but for the Barot community it is a deep sign of humility and respect. This ritual is not only to atone for past sins but also to honor the blessings given by Sadu Mata.

However, this tradition is not limited to just silencing curses. For many people, it is about honoring the goddess, who is believed to have protected and blessed their families for centuries. These days the pole becomes a place of devotion, where men of all ages dressed in colorful sarees pay homage to Sadu Mata with faith and belief.

Tags: Gujarat, Navratri festival