By New.storytailors,News18

Copyright news18

Navratri, the nine-day Hindu festival, is being celebrated with enthusiasm across India, with people flocking to dandiya and garba nights. This year, a video capturing a lively garba performance at Mumbai Airport has gone viral, sparking a debate on public decorum and civic sense.
The clip, shared by industrialist Harsh Goenka, shows passengers, airport staff, and even pilots joining in the celebrations. Dressed in traditional yellow and red attire, participants can be seen dancing to the rhythm of garba and dandiya. Airport staffers, in their uniforms, also take part in the festivities, adding to the colourful scene.
Goenka captioned the post: “At Mumbai Airport — passengers, pilots, staff, loaders, all moving to the same beat. No other airport in the world has this spirit. This is India.” The video quickly caught attention on social media, racking up millions of views within hours.

At Mumbai Airport-passengers, pilots, staff, loaders, all moving to the same beat.No other airport in the world has this spirit. This is India. ✈️❤️ pic.twitter.com/ifnUaj7Y6X
— Harsh Goenka (@hvgoenka) September 28, 2025

How Did The Internet React
While many applauded the display of joy and unity, the video also drew sharp criticism from users concerned about public conduct. Some claimed that celebrating inside an airport, a high-security and high-traffic area, was inappropriate.
One user wrote, “This kind of behaviour disrupts the decorum of airports and sets a wrong example. People will start imitating it without understanding the importance of the space.” Another added, “What an embarrassment.”
The debate highlights the challenge of balancing cultural celebrations with rules and safety in public spaces. Airports, unlike typical festival venues, have strict protocols to ensure security and smooth operations, making the incident controversial.
Culture At Its Epitome
Supporters of the video praised the joyous atmosphere and said it reflected India’s unique ability to celebrate life in every space. Critics stressed that some locations require restraint and adherence to regulations, even during festivals.
About Navaratri
Navratri, the nine-day festival dedicated to Maa Durga, celebrates the victory of good over evil. Each day of the festival honours a different form of the Goddess. This year, Navratri began on September 22 and will conclude on October 2 with Dussehra.
The nine forms of Maa Durga worshipped during Navratri are Shailaputri, Brahmacharini, Chandraghanta, Kushmanda, Skandamata, Katyayani, Kalaratri, Mahagauri, and Siddhidatri. Each day is also associated with a specific colour, symbolising spiritual significance and blessings. The sequence of colours changes each year depending on the day of the week Navratri starts. Devotees often wear the designated colours, believing they bring positive energy, divine blessings, and a deeper connection with the goddess’s unique powers.