Remember the saree scene from Stree? Learn about Barot community's unique Navratri tradition in Ahmedabad

We are sure fans of the OG Stree will remember the scene where men of Chanderi dress up as women to escape the wrath of Stree, the chudail on the days of the festival. They say that reel imitates real and here is an interesting anecdote. People who have visited the Old City of Ahmedabad know the story of Sadu Mata Ni Pol area. On the eight day of Navratri, men of Sadu Mata Ni Pol area wear sarees and do the garba. It is in honour of Sadu Mata and to appease a 200-year-old curse. The eighth day of Navratri is for Goddess Mahagauri. 

It seems 200 years back, Sadu Mata cursed the men of the area. As per the legend, she had sought help from men of the Barot community to save her from the Mughals. They had ruled over Ahmedabad and many parts of Gujarat for a long time. Saduben was wanted as a concubine by the Mughals and she asked the Barot men for help. No one helped her when she was attacked by the Mughals. Her child was killed by the invaders. In order to escape the life of concubine, she committed sati and ended her life. 

Before she leapt into the pyre for Sati, she cursed all Barot men that their future generations will be cowards. Afraid of her curse, they built a temple for Saduben. On the eighth day of Navratri, the men wear sarees and perform graceful garba. 

As we know, garba is done in front of the deity to appease her. They perform a Sheri Garba, a folk dance. The Barot community men treat Saduben as a sacred woman, and also seek her blessings for their children. Some have had their prayers answered as well.