"Maa Durga Garba Academy is Umbergaon’s premier institution for authentic Garba, where we transcend basic instruction to offer a high-level curriculum that masters the intricate 2 Tali,&3 Tali garba ,6-10 dodhiya variations, graceful body posture, and deep expressive work.
As the only academy in town to provide specialized theory classes and technical breakdowns of every Barrel and Ghoomar style, we prepare our students to exceed the skill level of professional trainers through rigorous daily practice in classical and semi-classical forms, including Hinch and Titoda.
OUR TEAM
Aniket Machhi
Krunal Soni
Neel Tandel
Nayan Parmar
MENTOR (Senior Kalaguru & Visionary)
A pioneer of the Garba game since 2014, Aniket Machhi is a renowned artist of South Gujarat whose name is synonymous with technical excellence. Having trained under the legendary masters of the region and attended elite masterclasses, he has spent over a decade dominating the competition circuit as both a winning performer and a respected judge. Known for his selfless devotion to the art, his profound knowledge of the traditional "Garba Game" serves as the foundational pillar of our academy.
Founder & Young Kalaguru
As the youngest leader of the academy, Neel Tandel is the driving force behind its precision and growth. While others rely solely on years of work, Neel is a testament to the power of raw talent and vision. He serves as the academy’s primary strategist—meticulously correcting technical errors in workshops, managing high-stakes competition prep, and overseeing the timing and execution of major events. Neel believes that while experience is valuable, it is fresh talent and relentless innovation that truly move the needle for the coming youth. He is the bridge between the legacy of the masters and the future of the Garba world.
Founder, Kalaguru & Technical Expert
A master of rhythm and variation, Krunal Soni brings a deep well of knowledge regarding the diverse Garba cultures of South Gujarat. His journey is defined by constant exploration and an academic approach to the dance, ensuring that every student understands the soul behind the steps. Together with Neel, he bridged the gap between different regional styles to bring a sophisticated, competition-ready curriculum to our students.
Instructor
Nayan Parmar is an experienced player who has become a familiar face in the South Gujarat and Umbergaon Garba scenes. Having earned local recognition and titles in regional events, Nayan’s strength lies in his hands-on experience and his dedication to the "Game." He refined his skills by attending masterclasses under Senior Kalaguru Aniket Machhi, transitioning from a dedicated student to a reliable teacher. With three years of experience instructing in various classes across town, Nayan brings practical knowledge and a steady hand to our daily training sessions, helping students build the stamina and consistency needed for high-level Garba.