Ahmedabad has a special relationship with Navratri. Every year the craze only grows, with hundreds of new Garba spots competing to offer the best theme, the best organisation, and the best space for people to both worship and celebrate. This year is no different — except for one thing: Ahmedabad’s first-ever masquerade Garba is happening at one of the city’s most prominent spots, BNI Na Garba.

The Masquerade-Themed Garba

Last week, BNI Ahmedabad announced this year’s theme: masquerade. Khelaiyas will play Garba wearing masks, marking Ahmedabad’s first such Navratri event of its kind — a detail that alone has generated plenty of buzz among the city’s regular Garba crowd. Before we get into what to expect on the night, it helps to understand where the masquerade concept actually comes from.

What Is a Masquerade?

A masquerade ball is a formal or semi-formal social event where guests wear masks and costumes while mingling and dancing together. It’s widely said to have originated in Venice during the 15th–16th centuries, though its roots trace back further in Europe — it was Italy that made the tradition truly iconic and gave it the visual identity we recognise today.

The concept rests on two ideas. Anonymity & Social Freedom — the mask concealed a person’s identity, letting people from different social circles mingle, converse, and dance without the expectations usually attached to their status. Mystery & Intrigue — a concealed identity created curiosity. Guests could wonder who was behind each mask, which made introductions, conversations, and dances feel more playful and unpredictable. The mask wasn’t just a costume accessory; it was part of the entertainment and atmosphere of the whole evening.

What Makes a Masquerade-Themed Garba Different?

Garba and masquerade blend naturally — both are visual celebrations where costume and dance style play a central role. Layering the masquerade concept onto Garba adds a new dimension of intrigue and elegance without replacing the traditions Navratri is known for; the two ideas complement rather than compete with each other.

BNI Na Garba has long been known for its large, beautifully themed first-day celebration, and this year’s masquerade twist adds a fresh layer of charm for khelaiyas coming to dance with friends. Adding to the energy of the night: Parth Oza, one of Gujarat’s most celebrated Garba artists, performing live — a name synonymous with high-energy Garba nights across the state.

How to Prepare

Since this is Ahmedabad’s first masquerade Garba, here are a few quick tips from Inside Amdavad:

• Pick the right mask. Venetian masks are the theme’s signature — choose one that matches your Garba outfit so the whole look feels well thought out rather than an afterthought.
• Prioritise comfort. You’ll likely be playing Garba for 5–6+ hours while wearing it, so a mask that looks great but pinches or slips will work against you as the night goes on.
• Come ready for something different. The traditional spirit of Navratri stays at the heart of the evening — the masquerade theme simply layers in mystery, elegance, and playfulness on top of it.
  

Date, Time, Venue & Tickets

• Date: 11th October 2026 (first day of Navratri)
  
• Timing: Not announced yet — watch BNI Ahmedabad’s social handles for updates
  
• Venue: Master Farm, near Sardardham, Vaishnodevi Circle, Ahmedabad
  
• Venue size: 2,70,000 sq ft total ground, with 40,000 sq ft dedicated as the playing area — enough room for a large crowd without the usual first-day crush
  
• Tickets: Not on open sale — passes are distributed exclusively through BNI members, so reach out to someone in the BNI Ahmedabad network to secure yours ahead of time
  
  
  

FAQs

1) What is a masquerade Garba?

It’s a Garba event where khelaiyas play while wearing masks, inspired by the traditional
Venetian masquerade ball — blending mystery and elegance with the spirit of Navratri.

2) How do I get tickets to BNI Na Garba’s masquerade event?

Passes are not sold publicly. You’ll need to connect with a BNI Ahmedabad member to get one.

3) Where is BNI Na Garba 2026 taking place?

At Master Farm, near Sardardham, Vaishnodevi Circle, Ahmedabad, on a 2,70,000 sq ft ground with a 40,000 sq ft playing area.