There’s no doubt that celebrating Navratri in Ahmedabad is one of the most amazing experiences ever! For nine nights, the city comes alive with people playing Garba with full energy, often till sunrise. But beyond the famous Garba events, there are also some lesser-known traditions. One such tradition sees men swapping their kurtas for sarees and joining the Garba celebrations in Ahmedabad’s Sadu Mata Ni Pol. Scroll down to know the story behind it!
Why Men In Ahmedabad Wear Sarees?
In Ahmedabad, one of the unique sights you’ll see during Navratri is men playing Garba while wearing sarees. This happens on the eighth day of the festival at the Sadu Mata Ni Pol. The fascinating tradition has a 200-year-old history and is linked to Sadu Mata.
It is believed that a woman named Saduben once sought protection from men of the Barot community. A Mughal official wanted Saduben to become his concubine. But the men didn’t come forward to help her, and she ended up losing her child. In grief and anger, Saduben cursed them, saying that their future generations would be known as cowards. She then committed sati.
To honour Saduben, the community built a temple for Sadu Mata. They also follow a unique tradition on Ashtami of wearing sarees and performing Garba. This is their way of apologising for their ancestors’ actions.
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Who Can Attend This Celebration In Sadu Mata Ni Pol?
Even after 200 years, the men of Sadu Mata Ni Pol in Ahmedabad still follow this tradition. This year, if you want to experience Navratri in a unique way, this is a must-visit. And don’t worry, you don’t have to buy any tickets. You can simply reach this pol in Ahmedabad’s old city and witness this fascinating tradition.
Men in this pol also follow this tradition to fulfil their wishes. It’s not just one or two men; many men have been following this tradition for years. Around 15 households in this pol participate every year, while many others come to witness the celebration.
How excited are you to be a part of this celebration? Tell us in the comments below!
Where: 2HPM+PCW, Saduma ni pol, Old City, Halim Ni Khadki, Shahpur, Ahmedabad
When: October 18, 2026
Also Read: Garba In A Jungle? Ahmedabad’s 1st Forest-Themed Navratri Starts From ₹1,111
Cover Image Courtesy: Priyanshi Shah
FAQs
Where is Sadu Mata Ni Pol in Ahmedabad?
In Ahmedabad, you can visit Sadu Mata Ni Pol at 2HPM+PCW, Saduma ni pol, Old City, Halim Ni Khadki, Shahpur, Ahmedabad.
Who can attend Navratri celebration in Ahmedabad's Sadu Mata Ni Pol?
Anyone can visit Navratri celebration in Ahmedabad's Sadu Mata Ni Pol.
Why men in Ahmedabad wear sarees to play Garba?
Men in Ahmedabad wear sarees to play Garba as part of a 200-year-old tradition to honour Sadu Mata and seek forgiveness.
