Swampy ground agitates revellers at Vadodara’s United Way Garba, refund demanded

After Sunday’s clash at the pass collection counters of United Way Garba in Vadodara, fresh chaos broke out on Monday, the first night of the event. Garba players (Khelayias) stopped performing and demanded refunds, complaining that the ground was muddy and waterlogged in several areas, making it difficult to play. As the protest escalated, organisers eventually announced refunds for the first day.

The city’s biggest Garba event drew reportedly 25,000 young men and women during the first session, who danced enthusiastically. However, as the night progressed, participants began raising complaints about the muddy conditions, leading to chaos.

Singer Atul Purohit was reportedly targeted, with mud thrown toward him, and some individuals even misbehaved with him. Despite his efforts to pacify the crowd, chants of “refund, refund” forced the event to be called off.

The organisers later said, “Give us one day to fix the ground. We do not make false promises. By the second night, the ground will be restored to the standard of previous years.” They added that those seeking refunds could submit their passes at designated stalls at the venue, and the money would be transferred online to their bank accounts within six days.