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Kala Manjari unites young artists across North America
Competition draws 125 participants showcasing music, dance, and chanting across three youth age groups.
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Staff Reporter - Thu, 02, Apr 2026
- 23:50 EDT
- 12
Poster of the competition. / VHPA
The ‘Kala Manjari Performing Art Competition,’ organized by the World Hindu Council of America (VHPA) and the Hindu Mandir Empowerment Council (HMEC), brought together about 125 young participants from across North America for its 2026 edition.
The event featured contestants in three age groups — 5 to 9, 10 to 14, and 15 to 20 years — competing in solo bhajan singing, solo dance, and chanting. Chanting categories included recitations such as the Hanuman Chalisa and Ganpati Atharvashirsha.
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Organizers said the competition aimed to provide a platform for young artists to present their skills while engaging with cultural and devotional traditions. Participants performed across categories that reflected both musical and religious practices rooted in Hindu traditions.
A panel of judges evaluated the entries across disciplines. Dance performances were judged by Srilalitha Akurati, Anitha Srikant, and Ruchi Shah. Vocal categories were assessed by Lakshmi Sumati Ramesh and Ankita Saha. Organizers said the panel ensured a structured and consistent evaluation process.
The program was coordinated by Smitha Katti, Suruchi Jain, and Vallabha Tantry, with support from Niyati Vasani and Tejal Shah. Organizers credited their efforts with facilitating participation and execution of the event.
According to organizers, the competition also sought to promote cultural awareness among youth in the Hindu diaspora. They said it encouraged participants to engage with traditional forms of expression while building confidence through performance.
Kala Manjari 2026 concluded with participation from families and community members across North America, reflecting continued interest in cultural programming for younger generations.
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