Smithsonian magazine's 22nd Annual Photo Contest | Made possible through the support of MPB.com

22nd Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest People
This is more than a dance

This is more than a dance—it’s a battle between creation and chaos, a divine union of Shiv and Shakti, a tension between devotion and destruction. Garba, traditionally a joyful Gujarati folk dance celebrating the goddess Durga, transforms here into something fierce and primal at the Lakshmi Vilas Palace Heritage Garba in Vadodara, as this dancer channels the unrelenting spirit of Maa Kali. Her movements blur the line between joy and devastation, filling Garba’s circular rhythm with intense power. Kali’s grace is not gentle—it’s a call to awaken the warrior within, reminding us that strength is something we unleash. Location: Lakshmi Vilas Palace, India - The largest private residence in the world.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 10.2024
Date Uploaded: 11.2024
Photo Location: Vadodara, India
Copyright: © Rasshi Ganeriwal