Harivallabh Sangeet Pratiyogita: National Hindustani Classical Vocal Competition (Senior)
by Shree Baba Harivallabh Sangeet Mahasabha
Cash prizes and medals
National Hindustani classical vocal competition for senior students aged 16-25, covering Khayal, Dhrupad, Thumri, Dadra, and Tappa styles.
Mode
In-Person
Fee
₹500
Participation format
Individual
Duration
4-day event (December 22-25)
Time needed
One 8 to 10 minute performance (6 to 8 for Thumri, Dadra, Tappa)
Eligibility
Open to students aged 16 to 25 with prior training and proficiency in Hindustani classical vocal music (Khayal, Dhrupad, Thumri, Dadra, or Tappa). The competition is open nationwide to all eligible participants.
- Age range
- 16 to 25 years
- Eligibility region
- Available nationwide across India
- Academic requirement
- Proficiency in Hindustani classical vocal music in at least one of the permitted styles.
- Prerequisites
- Prior training in Hindustani classical vocal under a recognised guru
- Proficiency in chosen vocal style (Khayal, Dhrupad, Thumri, Dadra, or Tappa)
See if your child qualifies.
Rewards and recognition
Award
Cash Prizes
Winners receive cash prizes for top positions.
Prizes
Cash prizes, medals, and certificates
Winners receive cash prizes, medals, and certificates from one of India's oldest and most prestigious classical music institutions.
Certificate
Merit & Participation Certificates
Merit certificates are awarded to winners, and participation certificates are given to all contestants.
Recognition
Recognition at Sangeet Natak Akademi institution
Skills your child builds
Key dates
- Competition
- 22 Dec 2026 to 25 Dec 2026
Devi Talab, Jalandhar, Punjab
How to apply
- 1Register via the Harivallabh Sangeet Mahasabha website during the registration window (typically October-November).
- 2Entry fee of ₹500 per participant per category.
- 3Submit an online application with the prescribed format, entry fee, proof of age, and a recent passport-size photograph.
Rules and guidelines
- Participants must adhere to the specified age limit of 16 to 25 years.
- Vocal performances in Khayal, Dhrupad, Thumri, Dadra, or Tappa styles are permitted in this category.
- Each participant must register individually and pay the entry fee of ₹500.
- Performances are judged on raag development, taala precision, bandish interpretation, and overall musical expression.
- Participants must bring their own accompanists if required, or inform organisers in advance.
- The decision of the judging panel will be final and binding.
- Late arrivals for performances may lead to disqualification.
- Participants are expected to maintain decorum and respect for fellow artists and judges.
Fees and financial support
Fee details
An entry fee of ₹500 per participant per category is required for the competition.
About this opportunity
The Harivallabh Sangeet Pratiyogita Senior Vocal Competition is the national contest for young adult Hindustani classical vocalists. Organised by the Shree Baba Harivallabh Sangeet Mahasabha, one of India's oldest classical music institutions, this annual event takes place in December in Jalandhar, Punjab as part of the larger Harivallabh Sangeet Sammelan.
The senior category is open to participants aged 16 to 25 and uniquely includes Thumri, Dadra, and Tappa styles in addition to Khayal and Dhrupad gayan. Winners receive cash prizes, medals, and certificates, gaining significant national recognition within classical music circles and a platform to showcase raag development, taala precision, bandish interpretation, and musical maturity before expert judges drawn from India's leading vocal gharanas.
Rounds and format
Single round competition.
How entries are judged
Raag development, taala precision, bandish interpretation, and overall musical expression.
Selection process
Based on evaluation of raag development, taala precision, bandish interpretation, and overall musical expression by the judging panel.
Academic details
Difficulty: Advanced
What's covered
The competition focuses on solo vocal performance in Khayal, Dhrupad, Thumri, Dadra, or Tappa styles, evaluated on raag development, taala precision, bandish interpretation, and overall musical expression.
Frequently asked questions
Which vocal styles are eligible for the senior category?
The Senior Vocal category accepts performances in Khayal, Dhrupad, Thumri, Dadra, or Tappa. Thumri, Dadra, and Tappa are uniquely permitted at the senior level and not in the junior age group.
What age group is eligible for the senior vocal competition?
The senior vocal competition is open to students aged 16 to 25 years. Participants must meet this age criterion as of December 1, 2026 to be eligible.
What is the registration fee for the senior vocal category?
A registration fee of ₹500 per participant per category is required. Payment details and the registration process are outlined on the official Harivallabh Sangeet Sammelan website.
Where and when is the senior vocal competition held?
The competition is held at Devi Talab, Jalandhar, Punjab, as part of the Harivallabh Sangeet Sammelan. It is scheduled from December 22 to 25, 2026.
What are the key judging criteria for senior vocal performances?
Performances are evaluated on raag development, taala precision, bandish interpretation, and overall musical expression. Judges look for classical accuracy combined with artistic maturity and individual interpretation.
Are accompanists provided or must participants arrange their own?
Participants must bring their own tabla and harmonium accompanists if required for their recital, or inform the organisers in advance so arrangements can be discussed.
Share with other parents
Categories
WiWit
Never miss the right opportunities for your child
The WiWit app shows you only the ones that fit your child.
- Matched to your child's grade, age, and interests
- Deadline reminders so you never miss registration
- Every opportunity verified before it's listed
Related opportunities
Jhankriti Classical Vocal Competition
by The Art of Living
A prestigious international virtual competition by Art of Living's WFAC for young Indian classical vocalists to showcase their talent and win recognition.
What your child could gain:
The Indian Fine Arts Society Annual Carnatic Vocal Music Competition
by The Indian Fine Arts Society Chennai
Showcase your Carnatic vocal talent at The Indian Fine Arts Society Chennai's annual competition for young musicians aged 10-20. Win prizes and gain performance opportunities.
What your child could gain:
Bangalore Gayana Samaja Music Competition - Junior Konnakkol
by Bangalore Gayana Samaja
Annual Carnatic vocal percussion competition for Junior division students in the art of Konnakkol, performing rhythmic syllable patterns without instruments.
What your child could gain:
See what fits your child
Get the free app