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FIA hosts 43rd Dance Pe Chance amid sub-zero temp in NJ

The competition featured 31 performances by dancers from 18 academies and included an oath ceremony for FIA’s 2026 executive committee.

Glimpses of the event / FIA

The Federation of Indian Associations (FIA-NY-NJ-CT-NE) hosted the 43rd edition of its flagship cultural competition, Dance Pe Chance on Feb. 7 at the Patriots Theatre at the War Memorial in Trenton, New Jersey.

Held amid subzero wind chills, the sold-out event drew more than 2,200 attendees and brought together the Indian American community to celebrate culture, creativity, and unity.

Also Read; FIA's Dance Pe Chance 40th edition - Dazzling Moves and Unforgettable Moments

Performances during the competition / FIA

Coinciding with India’s 77th Republic Day and the 150th anniversary of Vande Mataram, the competition featured 31 performances by nearly 870 children from 18 academies across the minor, junior, senior, and adult categories. 

The competition was judged by prominent actress Padmini Kolhapure, choreographer Supriya Doshi, and classical dancer Antima Chakraborty. The event was hosted by Mamta Narula and Srishti Narula.

The competition was judged by prominent actress Padmini Kolhapure, choreographer Supriya Doshi, and classical dancer Antima Chakraborty. / FIA

Performances included Indian classical, folk, Bollywood, and contemporary dance styles. Organizers used large LED backdrops, lighting effects, and coordinated costumes as part of the stage production.

The program opened with the national anthems, followed by remarks from FIA leadership. DPC chair Priti Ray-Patel spoke about the four-decade history of Dance Pe Chance. 

Performances during the competition / FIA

FIA president Sreekanth Akkapalli reviewed key milestones from the past year and highlighted the role of volunteers, while FIA chairman Ankur Vaidya addressed the organization’s growth and its role within the Indian American community in the Northeast.

Winners of the competitions / FIA

An oath ceremony for FIA’s 2026 executive committee was administered by Binaya S. Pradhan, Consul General of India in New York. In his address, Pradhan spoke about the scale of the event and outlined consular services available to the Indian diaspora. Vishal J. Harsh, Deputy Consul General of India in New York, also attended the program and addressed the gathering.

Winners of the competitions / FIA

During the closing segment, more than 100 volunteers were recognized for their role in organizing the event. Awards were presented in categories including Best Choreography, Thematic Innovation, and Outstanding Spirit.


 

FIA officials said preparations have begun for the 44th edition of Dance Pe Chance, scheduled for 2027.

Discover more at New India Abroad.

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