Minimalistic and simple, that's my go-to look for Navratri: Mira Erda

Mira Erda had plans to play garba daily this Navratri, but that won’t be possible. The racer, who has numerous podium finishes to her credit at national and international Formula 4 events, tells us, “While I got to play garba on the first two days, I have got the opportunity to participate in a race. But I will be back in time to play garba on the last three days. Getting to celebrate the festival for five days isn’t bad. Playing garba for three to four hours daily can be tiring, but it’s great fun too. While I love all songs by Atul Purohit, Hu Gokul No Govadiyo is among my recent favourites. Playing garba while listening to him is an experience of a lifetime.”

She adds, “Last year, I played garba for eight days. It’s always great fun. My diet goes for a toss during Navratri, but there are no complaints. I love eating out with friends after midnight during the festival, which you don’t get to do often.”

‘Keeping it simple helps while playing garba’

Talking about Navratri fashion, Mira says, “I prefer a simple, minimalistic look for Navratri. Keeping it simple helps if you are playing garba. Wearing light chaniya cholis and avoiding too many accessories and heavy makeup ensures that you feel very comfortable while dancing. I just deep clean my face daily.”

‘My mom used to make chaniya cholis for me earlier’

Remembering Navratri celebrations as a kid, Mira shares, “My mom would dress me up and she loved making chaniya cholis for me. So, I would have nine different outfits during Navratri, which would be made out of her lehengas or other dresses. All these outfits have a lot of sentimental value for me. Now, of course, I sometimes wear her chaniyas and it’s fun. When I was a kid, I loved attending a famous kids’ garba (Adukiyo Dadukiyo) in Vadodara. After dancing for a while, I would sit with my grandparents and watch the celebrations. Those memories are unforgettable.”

She adds, “Mom and I also love going to the famous markets in the walled city (in Vadodara) to shop before Navratri. After that, we love customising our outfits.”