Rashtriya Baal Nritya Mahotsav: National Children's Dance Festival, Khajuraho
by Ustad Allauddin Khan Sangeet Evam Kala Akademi
National-Level Performance Platform
Annual national classical dance festival for children aged 10-16 at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Khajuraho, held every February.
Mode
In-Person
Fee
Free
Participation format
Individual
Duration
7 days
Eligibility
Ages 10-16. Open to students trained in any Indian classical dance form recognized by Sangeet Natak Akademi, including Kathak, Bharatanatyam, Odissi, Manipuri, Kuchipudi, and Mohiniyattam. Selection by video submission and jury review.
- Grade level
- Grade 5 to 11
- Age range
- 10 to 16 years
- Eligibility region
- Available nationwide across India
- Prerequisites
- Prior training in at least one Indian classical dance form recognized by the Sangeet Natak Akademi
See if your child qualifies.
Rewards and recognition
Recognition
National Classical Dance Recognition
Skills your child builds
How to apply
- 1Online application and video submission
- 2Jury evaluation of submitted videos
- 3Notification of selection
Rules and guidelines
- Participants must perform a classical dance form recognized by the Sangeet Natak Akademi
- Video submissions must clearly showcase the participant's training and technique
- Participants must be between 10 and 16 years of age
- Performances must be in a recognized Indian classical dance form
- Adherence to festival schedule and guidelines
- Participants are responsible for their travel and accommodation, though support may be available for selected artists
Technology requirements
- Device with internet access for online application
- High-quality video recording equipment for submission
About this opportunity
The Rashtriya Baal Nritya Mahotsav is a national-level classical dance festival for children held annually as part of the Khajuraho Dance Festival at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Khajuraho Group of Temples in Madhya Pradesh. Organized by the Ustad Allauddin Khan Sangeet Evam Kala Akademi under the Department of Culture, Government of Madhya Pradesh, the festival provides young classical dancers a prestigious national platform.
Participants aged 10 to 16 trained in any Indian classical dance form recognized by the Sangeet Natak Akademi — including Kathak, Bharatanatyam, Odissi, Manipuri, Kuchipudi, and Mohiniyattam — are eligible to apply. Selection involves initial evaluation through video submission followed by review by a distinguished jury of senior classical dancers.
The Mahotsav takes place in February each year, coinciding with the main Khajuraho Dance Festival which runs for approximately seven days. Shortlisted young dancers perform before eminent jurors and audiences alongside India's finest classical dance artists, offering a rare platform for emerging talent to gain national visibility.
How entries are judged
Technical proficiency, adherence to classical form, expressiveness (abhinaya), stage presence, choreography, and overall artistic presentation.
Selection process
Initial selection based on video submission, followed by a final review and shortlisting by a distinguished jury for live performances.
Academic details
Difficulty: Intermediate
Frequently asked questions
Which classical dance forms are eligible for the Rashtriya Baal Nritya Mahotsav?
Students trained in any Indian classical dance form recognized by the Sangeet Natak Akademi are eligible, including Kathak, Bharatanatyam, Odissi, Manipuri, Kuchipudi, and Mohiniyattam. The festival encourages diverse classical expressions.
How are participants selected for the festival?
Selection involves an initial video submission reviewed by a panel of accomplished dancers. Shortlisted candidates then perform live before a distinguished jury of senior classical dance artists during the festival for final evaluation.
Are travel and accommodation arranged for selected participants?
Travel and accommodation arrangements for selected participants are coordinated through the Ustad Allauddin Khan Sangeet Evam Kala Akademi. Parents should confirm specific logistics and support details with the organizing team upon selection.
What are the key aspects considered during the performance evaluation?
The jury evaluates participants on technical precision (Nritta), expressive storytelling (Abhinaya), adherence to the chosen classical form, stage presence, and overall artistic presentation. Originality and grace are also highly valued.
What kind of preparation is recommended for aspiring participants?
Consistent and rigorous training under a qualified guru is essential. Participants should focus on perfecting their chosen classical dance form, developing strong stage presence, and practicing their performance piece thoroughly. Stamina and expressive abilities are key.
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