Garba, performed especially during the Navratri festival, is a traditional folk dance of which Indian state?

Introduction / Context:
India has a rich tradition of folk dances, many of which are strongly associated with specific states and festivals. Questions on folk dances test cultural literacy and the ability to map art forms to regions. Garba is one of the most well known Indian folk dances and is widely performed during Navratri, especially in western India.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The dance form in question is Garba.
• Options: Mizoram, Puducherry, Gujarat, and Rajasthan.
• We assume knowledge of state specific folk traditions.
• Garba is particularly linked to Navratri celebrations and circular group dancing.

Concept / Approach:
Garba involves dancers moving in a circle, clapping and using hand movements, often accompanied by traditional songs dedicated to the Goddess. It is strongly associated with the state of Gujarat and its diaspora. During Navratri, Garba and related form Dandiya Raas are performed in large community gatherings in Gujarat and in Gujarati communities across India and abroad. The other listed states have their own folk dances but are not the original home of Garba.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Identify Garba as a Navratri dance form featuring circular group movements and devotional songs. Step 2: Recall that this dance is especially popular in Gujarat, where Navratri is celebrated with large Garba events. Step 3: Mizoram, in north east India, has its own folk dances like Cheraw, but not Garba. Step 4: Puducherry is a small Union Territory with Tamil and French cultural influences, not primarily associated with Garba. Step 5: Rajasthan has dances like Ghoomar and Kalbeliya that are distinct from Garba. Step 6: Therefore, the correct state for Garba is Gujarat.

Verification / Alternative check:
Media coverage of Navratri celebrations almost always highlights Garba nights in cities such as Ahmedabad, Vadodara, and Surat in Gujarat. Cultural descriptions of Gujarati festivals and Non Resident Indian communities emphasise Garba and Dandiya as markers of Gujarati identity. This repeated association confirms that Gujarat is the state most closely linked with Garba.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Mizoram has a different cultural background and is known for dances such as Cheraw, often called the bamboo dance. Puducherry is better known for its blend of Tamil and French heritage rather than for Garba. Rajasthan has many colourful folk dances, but Garba is not among the main ones. Thus, none of these options match the specific dance form mentioned in the question.

Common Pitfalls:
Sometimes examinees confuse Garba with other circular dances like Ghoomar from Rajasthan because both feature group movements and colourful costumes. Others may simply pick any western Indian state without recalling the correct one. To avoid confusion, remember that Garba and Dandiya Raas are iconic features of Gujarati culture and Navratri celebrations.

Final Answer:
Garba is a traditional folk dance of the state of Gujarat.