Organized by the Sewa Boston Chapter, Nrityameva Jayate 2026 is an exciting dance competition celebrating the rich diversity and cultural heritage of Indian dance forms. This vibrant event brings together talented performers of all ages, showcasing classical and non-classical dance styles.
All proceeds from the event will support Sewa International’s SHE (Sanitation, Hygiene, and Empowerment) programs, helping empower communities and improve lives through education and health initiatives.
Join us for an unforgettable evening filled with rhythm, energy, and artistry while making a meaningful impact!
RULES AND GUIDELINES
1) 5 years and older can participate in the dance competition
2) Minimum number of participants in a group must be 5. Please register as a group and send us the full names and age.
3) Participation in the competition is limited to students only. Teachers are not permitted to participate, and any entry involving a teacher will be excluded from the competition
4.1) For dance performance duration in each category please see the below table:
| Age Group |
Duration for Non - Classical Segment |
Duration for Classical Segment |
| 5 -9 years |
5 minutes (Max) |
5 minutes (Max) |
| 10 - 12 years |
5 minutes (Max) |
5 minutes (Max) |
| 13 - 17 years |
5 minutes (Max) |
8 minutes (Max) |
| Adult |
5 minutes (Max) |
8 minutes (Max) |
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**Please note all performance durations include the time for setting up of props and cleaning up after the performance
4.2) For Singing performance duration in each category please see the below table:
| Age Group |
Duration for Classical Solo Segment |
Duration for Classical Group Segment |
| 11 - 17 years |
5 minutes (Max) |
5 minutes (Max) |
5) Each performance is limited to a maximum of three (3) props. Use of additional props will result in a deduction of points.
Solo Entry: $20
Group Entry: $50 per group (maximum 3 members per group)
Please note: Groups with more than 3 participants are not allowed.
Rules -
Classical:
Maintaining pitch (shruthi)
● How well is the participant singing in pitch and with the shruthi?
Rhythm (taalam, beat)
● Is the participant singing with the taalam and maintaining rhythm while
singing?
Gamakas/Sangathees/Brigas
● Is the participant signing gamakas with clarity?
● Is the participant differentiating between sagathees?
Presentation
● Is the participant pronouncing words correctly?
● (Group only) Are the participants relatively in sync?
Quality of aalapana
● How well is the participant recovering from mistakes?
● Is the participant involved in their performance and do they engage the
audience
6) We have an esteemed panel of judges who will be judging the dances based on the judging rubric that will be shared with the choreographers. All decisions will be final.
7) Food will be sold on-site during the event and will be available to both students and teachers.
