Every year, as the vibrant beats of Garba fill Indian cities during Navratri, a concerning pattern emerges alongside the celebrations. Reports of dancers collapsing from heart attacks have become increasingly common, sending shockwaves through families and communities. Medical experts are now speaking out about this alarming trend and sharing crucial advice to keep festival-goers safe.
Dr Jagjeet Deshmukh, a cardiologist at Sahyadri Super Speciality Hospital in Hadapsar, Pune, explains that Garba is far from a casual dance. "Garba involves very intense physical exercise that can last for hours," Dr Deshmukh notes. "The endless dancing, loud music, and crowded atmosphere force the body to work much harder than usual."
The problem becomes serious for people with hidden heart conditions. During high-energy dancing, the heart may struggle to pump blood efficiently, leading to dangerous complications.
One of the main culprits is the sudden increase in physical activity. Most Garba participants don't exercise regularly throughout the year, but during Navratri, they dive into hours of intense nightly dancing.
"This sudden spike in physical activity can shock the system," warns Dr Deshmukh. "While a fit person's heart can usually handle it, those who are overweight or have conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure face much higher risks."
The tragedy hit close to home last year when Pune's beloved ‘Garba King’ suffered a fatal cardiac arrest while performing. This incident highlighted the very real dangers that can lurk beneath the festival's joyful surface.
Dr Amit Nabar, Director of Emergency Medicine at SLRaheja Hospital Mahim, points to our current lifestyle as a major factor. "Irregular sleep, fast food, stress, and sitting all day already strain the heart," Dr Nabar explains. "Add late-night parties, junk food, sweets, and energy drinks during festival season, and the body becomes even more vulnerable."
Perhaps most concerning is that many people carry hidden heart diseases without knowing it. These conditions may not cause obvious symptoms during normal daily activities, but the intense physical demands of Garba can suddenly expose these problems.
"This is why even young people who appear healthy sometimes collapse during such activities," Dr Deshmukh explains.
Another critical factor often goes unnoticed - dehydration. Dancers sweat heavily during Garba but often forget to drink enough water. Dehydration raises blood pressure, disrupts circulation, and can disturb normal heart rhythm, multiplying the risk of cardiac events.
The emotional excitement of festivals also plays a role, causing sudden spikes in adrenaline that affect heart rate and blood pressure.
Medical experts strongly recommend conditioning your heart before Navratri begins. "Simple steps like regular walking, light exercise, and stretching a few weeks before the festival can prepare your heart," advises Dr Deshmukh.
People with diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol should consult their doctor before participating in strenuous activities like Garba.
If you experience dizziness, breathlessness, or chest pain, stop immediately and rest. These could be warning signs that shouldn't be ignored.
Dr Nabar emphasises eating light, balanced meals that provide sustained energy. "Drink plenty of water throughout the day and during events," he recommends. "Avoid caffeine or sugary drinks that cause energy crashes."
People with diabetes or high blood pressure must stick to their medication schedules and monitor their conditions closely during celebrations.
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Event organisers also have a role to play in preventing cardiac emergencies. Dr Deshmukh suggests ensuring proper ventilation, having medical personnel on standby, and educating participants about safe participation.
Beyond heart concerns, the changing weather during Navratri increases the risk of mosquito-borne diseases like malaria and dengue. Dr Nabar recommends wearing protective clothing and using mosquito repellent, especially for outdoor late-night events.
While it's easy to get caught up in the festival excitement, both doctors stress the importance of adequate rest. "Give your body time to recover between sessions," advises Dr Nabar. "Maintain a regular sleep schedule and don't run on empty."
"Remember that Garba is meant to be enjoyed in community, celebrating culture and tradition - not to compete or prove endurance," Dr Nabar reminds festival-goers.
Heart attacks during Garba aren't random accidents. They result from a combination of lifestyle factors, hidden health conditions, and sudden physical demands. The encouraging news is that most of these risks can be reduced through proper preparation and awareness.
As Dr Deshmukh concludes, "Garba is a festival of devotion and celebration. By taking simple precautions, we can ensure it remains safe and enjoyable for everyone."
This Navratri, let the music play and the colours dance - but remember that the most important step is the one that keeps you healthy and safe.
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