Vibrant Navratri celebration brings Lincolnshire communities together to support local causes

People of all ages from across Lincolnshire came together in Lincoln this evening for a vibrant celebration of dance, culture and community, collecting donations for the Lincoln Hygiene Bank and Taste of Unity Kitchen.

Organised by Lincoln Balagokulam, the Navratri Raas Garba celebration took place at Lincoln Christ’s Hospital School on Saturday 10 October, ahead of Navratri beginning on Sunday 11 October.

Navratri, meaning “nine nights”, is a Hindu festival honouring the Divine Mother, particularly Goddess Durga, and celebrating the triumph of good over evil. Traditions vary across India and include prayer, fasting, music and dance.

Rooted in Gujarat’s Garba and Dandiya Raas traditions, the evening warmly welcomed people of all backgrounds to share in the festivities. Members of Hindu, Sikh and Jain communities joined people of other faiths and no faith in a celebration of friendship and belonging.

Colourful traditional clothing and lively music created a vibrant atmosphere, with children, young people and adults sharing the dance floor. Garba’s rhythmic group dancing and Dandiya Raas—the traditional dance using decorated sticks—brought generations together, sharing Gujarati cultural heritage while building connections across the county.

Alongside the festivities, community members donated hygiene and personal care products and food items for the Lincoln Hygiene Bank and Taste of Unity Kitchen. Their generosity connected the celebration with practical support for local people.

Sanjay Nimavat, who leads Lincoln Balagokulam and is also Chair of Lincolnshire Faith Council, said:

“It is wonderful to see the community coming together for such a vibrant celebration and supporting local causes. We have been doing this for several years, and it is lovely to see people of all ages and different backgrounds joining in.”

The Centre for Reconciliation thanked Lincoln Balagokulam, the volunteers and everyone who contributed donations. The Lincoln Hygiene Bank helps people access essential hygiene products, while Taste of Unity Kitchen brings people together over shared meals, promoting dignity, inclusion and friendship.

As Navratri begins, the evening offered a warm reminder of how sharing cultural and religious traditions can strengthen understanding across communities while making a difference close to home.

The Centre for Reconciliation wishes everyone celebrating a very happy Navratri. May the festival bring joy, peace and togetherness to you, your families and communities. Have a wonderful celebration!

Community donations for the Lincoln Hygiene Bank and Taste of Unity Kitchen at Lincoln Balagokulam’s vibrant Navratri celebration, bringing together people from across Lincolnshire.