Mumbai, September 22, 2026 : A controversial trend of “Rent a Garba Partner” advertisements offering paid dance companions for Navratri celebrations has prompted BJP MLA from Borivali, Sanjay Upadhyay to formally seek a police investigation, citing risks of fraud, exploitation of women, and threats to public safety.
In a letter dated September 21, 2026, Upadhyay wrote to the Mumbai Police Commissioner (Crawford Market), the Deputy Commissioners of Police for Borivali Zone-11 and Dahisar Zone-12, and several local police stations. He flagged advertisements and schemes circulating in Borivali and other parts of Mumbai that offer men and women — particularly young people — as Garba partners for fees ranging from ₹1,000 to ₹6,500.
Rent a Garba Partner | Key Concerns Raised in the Letter
The MLA stated that these commercial “partner-for-hire” offers have come to his notice through advertisements and schemes linked to Garba events in his constituency and across the city. He expressed serious apprehension that the activity could involve:
- Violation of the law
- Fraud or deception of women
- Immoral or illegal practices
Upadhyay urged the police to conduct a thorough investigation. If any legal violation, fraud against women, or unethical activity is found, he demanded that cases be registered against the organisers, advertisers, and responsible individuals, and that strict legal action be taken. He also called for a ban on such advertisements and schemes to protect the safety of women and citizens, and requested that a report of the action taken be sent to his office.
Rent a Garba Partner | Broader Context of the Controversy
Similar “Rent a Garba Partner” posts have gone viral on social media across Mumbai, Gujarat (particularly Ahmedabad), and other cities ahead of Navratri 2026. Many advertisements promote tiered packages (sometimes labelled Silver, Gold, and Platinum) that claim to include dancing time, step tutoring, matching outfits, selfies, Instagram reels, and even scripted “NRI partner” backstories. Prices reported in circulating posts range from a few hundred rupees for short sessions to as high as ₹6,500 for extended or all-night packages.
Cybercrime authorities in Gujarat have already issued public warnings, advising people not to transfer money or share personal details with unknown social-media accounts offering such services. Mumbai Police are examining the complaint and related digital links for possible fraud, misrepresentation, or other offences.
The issue has added to ongoing discussions around the commercialization of traditional festivals and the need to safeguard participants — especially women — during large public celebrations.
Navratri 2026 is scheduled to begin in early October. Authorities have advised the public to exercise caution with unsolicited online offers and to report suspicious activity to the nearest police station or cybercrime helpline.