Lincoln Hindu Community Celebrates Navratri with Dance, Prayer and Community Spirit

The Hindu community of Lincoln came together in vibrant celebration on Saturday, 27th September 2025, for the annual Navratri Raas Garba festival, organised by Lincoln Balagokulam at Lincoln Christ’s Hospital School Sports Hall.

The event attracted over 300 people, including families, children, and members of different faiths and backgrounds, showcasing Lincoln’s diversity and spirit of unity.

Navratri, meaning “nine nights”, is one of the most significant festivals in the Hindu calendar. Celebrated across India and the world, it honours Goddess Durga and symbolises the triumph of good over evil. Traditionally, the festival is marked with nightly prayers, fasting, devotional songs, and the joyful community dances of Raas Garba and Dandiya Raas, which originated in Gujarat.

The Lincoln celebration began with Aarti at 6pm, followed by Prasadam and the sharing of pure vegetarian potluck food. The lively evening saw both newcomers and regular participants joining in the traditional dances.

Sanjay Nimavet, who helps organise the event every year, said: “We have lots of new faces this year, especially families and children. Navratri is about community, togetherness, and devotion, and it’s wonderful to see Lincoln’s diversity reflected in this celebration.”

In addition to the festivities, the event also supported a local cause, with donations collected for the Lincoln Hygiene Bank, helping those in need who are experiencing hygiene poverty.

Last year, the community also raised much-needed donations for the Hygiene Bank, and this year’s continued support reflects the community’s commitment to coming together to help those most in need.

The event was supported by the Lincolnshire Faith Council, highlighting the importance of interfaith cooperation and cultural understanding within the city.