Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai

Mumbai, Sep 29: Navratri celebrations took an unexpected and lively turn at Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport this week, when staff and passengers spontaneously broke into Garba inside the busy terminal. For a brief moment, the airport—usually a hub of strict order and security—transformed into a vibrant dance floor, uniting loaders, ground staff, crew members, and travellers in a joyous display of festive cheer.

Industrialist Harsh Goenka shared a video of the impromptu celebration on social media, lauding the spirit of the moment. “At Mumbai Airport—passengers, pilots, staff, loaders, all moving to the same beat. No other airport in the world has this spirit. This is India,” he wrote on X. The clip captured uniformed staff clapping, dancing, and joining hands with passengers, radiating a sense of unity and cultural vibrancy.

Mumbai Airport authorities responded swiftly, posting on their official account: “Dear Mr Goenka, thank you for sharing this wonderful festive moment! We are delighted to see the Mumbai Airport family come together, along with our passengers, in celebrating the joy of Garba. Such occasions beautifully reflect the richness of Indian culture, blending seamlessly with the spirit of aviation. Team CSMIA.”

The video quickly went viral, attracting thousands of views, likes, and shares. Social media users praised the spontaneity, with one commenting, “Only in India can an airport turn into a Garba ground.”

However, the celebration also drew criticism from some quarters, with concerns raised over security. “Staff & security dancing instead of ensuring safety,” noted one user, while another added, “The airport staff would’ve been rapped for shirking duty had they participated in any other event.”

The incident highlights the unique blend of Indian festive spirit with daily life, even in high-pressure spaces like airports.