Solo Dance "Indian Classical" Competition Rules
Age Groups
- Sub-Juniors: Age 5 - 7 Years
- Juniors: Age 8 - 10 Years
- Seniors: Age 11 - 13 Years
- Youth: Age 14 - 17 Years
- Adults: Age 18 and above
- Adults: Age 30 and above
Duration: 4 to 9 Minutes
Genres: Kathak, Kuchipudi, Bharatanatyam, Mohiniyattom, Odissi, etc.
Before you register, please read the sections below.
Rules & Regulations
- Separate competition for each age group.
- Performance should be in one of the Indian Classical dance forms such as Kathak, Kuchipudi, Bharatanatyam, Mohiniyattom, Odissi, etc.
- The audio or song for the performance should be in mp3 format and must be sent to
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. at least 10 days prior to the event date. The audio file should contain music/song, along with narration, if any. We will accept only a single audio file for a contestant, which should not be more than 9 minutes long. - Live narrations are not encouraged. Official MCs are prohibited from reading scripts for contestants. Contestants requiring live narration must arrange for their own narrator to be present and ready at the time of performance. A 1-minute timer will be set for live narrations.
- If the narration (live or recorded) exceeds 1 minute, the contestant must shorten their music file accordingly to ensure the total time remains within the 9-minute maximum.
- If the audio play time exceeds the maximum allowed time (9 Minutes), regardless of what stage the dance is at, the audio will be stopped when it reaches 9 minutes.
- We will not allow prompting of any manner during the performance.
- The contestant's age must fall within the specified age category, as of January 1 of the current year. The participant must register online prior to the registration deadline and receive an email confirmation number from KANE. KANE maintains the right to seek a participant's birth certificate for age verification (if required).
- KANE reserves the right to photograph and/or video record the performances. We may publish such photos/videos post-event.
- The Judges' decision will be final.
- Violation of any of the above rules may disqualify the contestant.
Judging Guidelines
Total Score: 100
1. Technical Precision (30 Points):
- The clarity of body movements, posture, and execution of footwork.
- Correct lines of the body, balance during turns/poses, and the sharpness of hand gestures (Mudras).
- Do the movements and expressions reflect the purity and traditions of the style of the dance (Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Kuchipudi, Mohiniyattom, Odissi, etc.)
2. Rhythm and Timing (20 Points):
- The dancer’s synchronization with the rhythm of the music.
- Maintaining the tempo throughout the piece, landing footwork exactly on the beat, and handling complex rhythmic patterns.
3. Expression and Emotion (20 Points):
- The ability to convey the "Rasas" (emotions) and the story behind the lyrics.
- Facial expressions, eye movements, and how well the dancer connects with the audience emotionally.
4. Costume and Presentation (10 Points):
- The visual appeal and traditional correctness of the attire.
- Authentic, traditional costume, jewelry, hair, and makeup. It should be neat and appropriate for the specific dance style.
5. Choreography and Use of Space (10 Points):
- The creative flow of the dance and how the stage is utilized.
- Intelligent movement across the stage (not just staying in one spot) and the variety of patterns used.
6. Overall Impact and Entertainment (10 Points):
- The general stage presence and confidence of the performer.
- Stamina, energy level, and the "completeness" of the performance from start to finish.
PENALTY APPLIED:
a) 10 points - if the total time (dance performance + narration) exceed 9 minutes.
b) 10 points - if not ready when the name/chest number is called onstage for performance.
All participants must register before the registration ends. It is important to obtain a registration confirmation email back from KANE. Click the "REGISTER NOW" button on the top. Once you register, you will get an auto-reply from KANE. However, we will review your registration and will confirm it by replying to you via email. This confirmation is mandatory to participate in the event.
Prizes
Winners are chosen as follows:
- If only one participant is registered for this event, a participation certificate/award will be given.
- If more than one participant, then first, second, and third prize winners are declared based on scoring and the total number of participants.
- Prizes, certificates, trophies/medals will be awarded to all the winners on the same day/Finale.
Note:
Official judges feedback and comments shall not be publicly disclosed or distributed by the organization. Participants may approach the judges for personal feedback following the event; however, providing such feedback is entirely at the judges’ discretion.

