Garba Haus — Dandiya Raas Workshop (July Edition)

Garba Haus is bringing Dandiya to Melbourne with a warm, community-focused two-hour workshop where you learn the foundations of Dandiya Raas, build up to a partner pattern, and leave with new friends. It is aimed at complete beginners as much as at people who have danced every Navratri — no experience is needed.

The session runs in stages: the 3-Step Dandiya as the simple rhythmic foundation, then the 12-Step Dandiya which adds travel and energy, a chai break to refuel, then Ramjhaniyu, a high-energy move focused on footwork. The workshop finishes with a polish-and-practise block where everyone slips into a chaniya and the moment is filmed.

Good to know: duration is two hours; come solo or with a friend, as solo dancers are paired up either way; dandiyas are provided although you can bring your own; wear leggings underneath because a chaniya is included to try on for the finale; it is a barefoot session; and chai is included and served mid-session. Spots are limited. The refund policy is no refunds. The venue is Pulse Studios AU at 285 Carlisle St, Balaclava VIC 3185, a short walk from Balaclava station on the Sandringham line. Tickets and host contact are through the Humanitix listing.