Known as the ‘Queen of Dandiya’, Falguni Pathak has been the heartbeat of Navratri celebrations for decades. Her music, voice, and energy have created countless memories for Garba lovers across India and beyond. This year, she gears up to bring her magic to a new stage at the Jio World Centre, Mumbai, and in an exclusive conversation with ETimes, she opens up about her connection with Navratri, her preparations, and what makes this festival so special.
When asked if your performances in Mumbai during Navratri have become a tradition over the years, What makes this experience so special for you?
Performing in Mumbai during Navratri is always very close to my heart. I’ve grown up here, and the connection I have with the audience is something truly special. The energy, the smiles, the way everyone dances their heart out — it’s magical. Every year when I step on stage, it feels like coming home. The love people give, the way they sing along, it’s overwhelming. Mumbai has always given me so much, and performing here during Navratri is pure joy.
How do you prepare for Navratri performances?
Falguni Pathak: Preparations begin almost two months before Navratri. I start avoiding fried food, cold food, and cold drinks. Then I follow a proper diet to keep my voice and health in check. Before every show, my team and I pray together, and I personally recite the Hanuman Chalisa. It has been part of me for many years, I just can’t go on stage without it.
Navratri means nine days of back-to-back performances. How do you take care of your voice?
During Navratri, I try to speak less because the less strain on the voice, the better. Even before the nine days begin, I prefer staying a bit silent. I also take care of my diet, avoid stress, and do regular steam inhalation, gargles, and riyaaz. My guru has taught me all of this, and it helps me stay consistent throughout the season.
This year, you are performing at new location in Mumbai. How does it feel to move to an indoor venue?
We are very excited because after about 37 years, we are performing at an indoor venue. Earlier, performances used to go on till 6 am, but with the 10 pm time limit, it took us many years to adjust. Now, with this indoor setup, there’s no time limit, there’s AC, and we don’t have to keep checking the clock. We can truly enjoy performing and the audience can enjoy even more. It feels refreshing, like a new beginning.
Over the years, how has your process of selecting songs changed?
Earlier, we used to travel from village to village in Gujarat, collecting CDs, pen drives, even old cassettes. We would listen all night and pick songs for Navratri. Now, of course, everything is available online. Still, we make an effort to bring something new every year. We adapt Hindi songs into Garba beats, like ‘Pari Hoon Main’. Every year, we try to add one or two special tracks so the audience feels excited and doesn’t find it monotonous.
Your fans love your style on stage. How do you plan your looks for Navratri?
Earlier, I was very casual, I would wear denim jackets, trousers, or six-pocket pants. But now, for the past few years, we’ve started making designer jackets. I also buy new sunglasses, watches, and shoes every year. People notice these details, so yes, along with music, styling has become important.
How do you and your team prepare musically for Navratri?
Preparations begin as soon as the Shravan month starts. We search for new songs online, sit with the team, and brainstorm about rhythms, harmonies, and adaptations for Garba. Then we book an auditorium and rehearse from morning to evening for five to six days. This helps us refine everything before the big nights.
Finally, what excites you most about this year’s Navratri?
This year is fascinating because we are performing at the Jio World Center. It’s a beautiful venue with world-class facilities. Change always brings fresh energy, and I believe this space will add a new flavour to the celebrations while keeping the soul of Navratri intact. I can’t wait to see everyone come together and create new memories.
