Shanmukhananda Annual Music Competition - Sitar (Group I: 10-15 Years)
by Sri Shanmukhananda Fine Arts and Sangeetha Sabha
Endowment & Memorial Prizes
Annual Hindustani Sitar competition by Sri Shanmukhananda Sabha, Mumbai, for young sitar artistes aged 10-15 years, offering stage exposure and endowment prizes.
Mode
In-Person
Fee
₹200
Participation format
Individual
Duration
2 days
Time needed
One performance of up to 20 minutes
Eligibility
Open to sitar artistes aged 10-15 years (Group I) who have working training in Hindustani sitar and can present prescribed raags. Participants must be residents of Mumbai or able to travel for the in-person competition. Proof of age is required. Previous first prize winners in the same group or All India Radio/Doordarshan listed artistes are not eligible.
- Age range
- 10 to 15 years
- Eligibility region
- Available nationwide across India
- Prerequisites
- Working training in Hindustani sitar
- Ability to present the prescribed raags and repertoire for the chosen age group
- Competitors must arrange their own instrument and accompaniment
See if your child qualifies.
Rewards and recognition
Prizes
Endowment & Memorial Prizes
Endowment and memorial prizes instituted by patrons, gurus and families of leading Hindustani sitar artistes are awarded across the age-group sub-competitions.
Recognition
Recognition from a leading classical sabha
Skills your child builds
How to apply
- 1Collect the entry form from the Sri Shanmukhananda Bharatiya Sangeetha Vidyalaya office in Sion (East), Mumbai, from December 25, 2025, between 4 pm and 8 pm on working days.
- 2Submit a separate entry form for the Sitar competition, attaching proof of age and the list of pieces to be presented.
- 3Pay the non-refundable entrance fee of ₹200 per entry by cash, NEFT or UPI and quote the transaction ID on the application.
- 4Each competitor is intimated in writing about the date and time of the competition.
Rules and guidelines
- A non-refundable entrance fee of Rs. 200 per competition must be paid by cash, NEFT or UPI
- Separate entry form must be submitted for each competition entered
- Competitors must arrange their own Shruti, instruments and Talam accompaniment
- First prize winners in a particular group in previous editions cannot re-enter the same group
- Artistes on the All India Radio or Doordarshan list are not eligible to participate
Fees and financial support
Fee details
A non-refundable entrance fee of ₹200 per competition entry is required, payable by cash, NEFT or UPI. A separate entry form and fee are required for each competition entered. NEFT and UPI applications must quote the transaction ID, failing which the entry is disqualified.
Refund policy
The entrance fee is non-refundable.
About this opportunity
The Shanmukhananda Annual Music Competition for Sitar, organized by Sri Shanmukhananda Fine Arts and Sangeetha Sabha in Mumbai, offers a prestigious platform for young Hindustani classical sitar talent. This event provides structured stage exposure and live evaluation by an expert panel of judges.
Specifically for sitar artistes aged 10 to 15 years (Group I), participants must have working training in Hindustani sitar and be able to present prescribed raags and repertoire. Competitors vie for endowment and memorial prizes, gaining valuable recognition and practical performance experience.
Rounds and format
Each discipline runs as a single live performance round before the judges. Competitors present the prescribed repertoire for their chosen age group within the time decided by the judges, not exceeding 15 to 20 minutes.
How entries are judged
Judging is done by a panel nominated by the Sabha and the decision of the judges is final. Judges may ask a competitor to present additional raags or compositions and may stop the presentation at any stage at their discretion.
Selection process
Direct selection on the basis of the live performance before the judges. Where fewer than three entries are received in a competition, the prize is awarded only if the contestant scores at least 70 percent.
Academic details
Difficulty: Mixed Levels
What's covered
Hindustani Sitar sub-competitions are organised by age group with prescribed raag presentations. Detailed repertoire is published in the Sabha's annual syllabus brochure.
Frequently asked questions
How can students effectively prepare for the Shanmukhananda Annual Music Competition?
Effective preparation involves consistent practice of prescribed raags and repertoire, focusing on technique, tonal control, and rhythmic precision. Mock performances under timed conditions can help manage stage presence and performance anxiety.
What are the key factors judges consider when evaluating performances in the Sitar competition?
Judges typically assess adherence to the chosen raag, technical proficiency, musicality, creativity in improvisation (within traditional bounds), layakari (rhythmic play), and overall presentation.
How can participants manage performance anxiety during a live competition?
Participants can manage anxiety through deep breathing exercises, visualization techniques, and thorough preparation. Focusing on the music rather than the outcome, and viewing the competition as a learning experience, can also be beneficial.
What are the long-term benefits for students participating in this competition?
Participation offers invaluable stage exposure, constructive feedback from expert judges, and the opportunity to benchmark skills against peers. It fosters discipline, resilience, and a deeper understanding of Hindustani classical music.
Are there specific strategies for selecting repertoire that can enhance a student's chances in the competition?
Selecting repertoire that showcases both technical prowess and musical depth is crucial. Students should choose pieces that highlight their strengths, demonstrate a clear understanding of the raag, and fit within the allotted time.
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