Participants at the workshop in Ranchi on Friday. Picture by Hardeep Singh

Slip into your traditional chaniya choli or don a turban, hook up with your buddies and pick up two colourful sticks.

As the countdown to Navratri begins, dandiya scores over disco. So, it is important to get the steps right and not miss a beat.

Which is why, coming to the rescue of Ranchi residents, event management group Neev is hosting a week-long dandiya workshop from September 16. About 150 participants, all aged above eight years, have registered to learn the nuances of the dance form from Calcutta choreographer Dev Govind Binani at Maheshwari Bhawan.

It will end on September 22 with a grand dandiya night at Milan Palace.

Participants have been divided into six batches, starting from 11.30am. Each batch is allotted two hours, while the last time slot (7.30pm to 9pm) is reserved for couples.

“This year, we are focusing on traditional dandiya with aarti,” said Neev member Himanshu Chitlangia.

While registration fee for the basic course is Rs 1,100, those taking the advanced course paid Rs 1,000. The not-so-small sum isn’t a hiccup for those who want to master the moves.

“Navratri is one of the most awaited events of the year. Learning dandiya is essential part,” said Harshit Chitlangia, a final-year commerce student of St Xavier’s College.

“The dedication of participants here is amazing,” choreographer Binani smiled.