ABOUT
ISKCON Hare Krishna Dham Presents: Janmashtami Cultural Fiesta 2024
Step into a world of celebration and tradition with the Janmashtami Cultural Fiesta 2024, a cultural extravaganza that brings together diverse communities for an unforgettable experience.
The Janmashtami Cultural Fiesta offers a vibrant platform for participants of all ages to engage in a diverse array of performing and non-performing arts. From Dance, Music, and Theatre to Art, Oratory, and Digital Storytelling, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
With exciting events such as Rangoli Competition, Clay Pot Painting, Battle of Bands, Group Classical Dance, Dahi Handi, Fancy Dress, Contemporary Dance (Solo and Group), and Digital Storytelling, the fiesta promises a memorable experience filled with creativity and joy.
Participate in 11 thrilling contests and stand a chance to win prizes worth up to ₹6000. The fiesta is designed to nurture the spirit of collaboration and cooperation through collective celebration.
Join us on the 25th and 26th of August 2024 in celebrating our rich cultural heritage. Be prepared to be entertained, inspired, and enlightened. Experience the pride and joy of our incredible traditions at the Janmashtami Cultural Fiesta 2024!
Save the date and get ready for an unforgettable celebration!
Announcements
Events Schedule
List of Events
Rangoli
Clay Pot Painting
Theatrical Drama
Solo Classical (Nexus)
Solo Classical (KTPO)
Group Classical
Dahi Handi
Fancy Dress
Contemporary Dance (Solo)
Contemporary Dance (Group)
Digital Story Telling
Painting
Battle of Bands
Rangoli
Rules
- Participants must create a rangoli design using only the flowers and leaves.
- The use of additional materials or external references is not allowed.
Duration
- Teams will have 1.5 hours to complete their design, with the final 10-15 minutes allocated for presentation.
Materials to Carry
- Fresh flowers of various colors
- leaves.
Team Size
 A team of 2 to 3 members
Conduct
- Designs must be original and created on the spot.
- Ensure the work area is kept clean and safe throughout the competition.
Judging Criteria
Design and Layout, Use of Color Creativity and Originality, Precision and Neatness, Visual Impact
CLAY POT PAINTING
Rules
-
Painting the clay pots (Dahi Handis) using acrylic paints, brushes and decorative materials.
-
Paint vibrant designs, Krishna motifs, or traditional patterns on the pots to enhance their festive appeal.
Duration
- Teams will have 1.5 hours to complete their design, with the final
- 10-15 minutes allocated for presentation.
Materials to Carry
- The participants can carry acrylic paints, brushes, basic decorative materials (glitter, beads, etc.), aprons or protective clothing.
Conduct
-
- Ensure a clean and safe painting environment.
- No use of offensive or inappropriate designs.
- Maintain decorum and respect towards other participants.
- Incase of breakage of pot no new pot will be given.
Judging Criteria
Creativity and Originality, Relevance to Theme (Krishna motifs, traditional patterns), Color Combination and Design, Neatness and Finish, Cheering crowd, Overall Aesthetic Appeal.
Mystique Mathura
(Theatrical Drama)
Rules
• Script Submission: Submit scripts for approval by 20th August to ensure adherence to the theme.
• Language: Performances can be in English, Hindi or Kannada.
• Props and Costumes: Teams must arrange their own props and costumes, which should be appropriate and relevant to the theme.
• Content Restrictions: Any performance containing sexually explicit, violent images, or inappropriate content will lead to disqualification.
• Safety: No use of fire, water, colored powder, glitter, or any dangerous props.
Theme
- Â Dramas must portray stories or teachings from the life of Lord Krishna, focusing on Krishna’s Leelas (divine pastimes) or spiritual messages inspired by his teachings.
Team Size
 A team of 8 to 10 members, including cast and
crew.
Duration
- 10 + 5 minutes per drama, including setup and takedown.
Materials to Carry
- Props and Costumes: Teams must arrange their own props and costumes, which should be appropriate and relevant to the theme.
Judging Criteria
Adherence to Theme, Creativity and Originality, Acting and Expression, Coordination and Teamwork, Set Design and Costumes, Overall Impact and Message.
SOLO CLASSICAL DANCE (Nexus)
Dance Styles
- Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Odissi, Kuchipudi
Time limit
- 4 + 1 minute (empty stage to empty stage)
Music
- Must be handed over in a USB to the Event Head 2 hours before the event.
- Ensure music is cued and checked at the console.
- Must be handed over in a USB to the Event Head 2 hours before the event.
- Ensure music is cued and checked at the console.
Conduct
- Â Obscenity of any kind is not allowed and will lead to immediate disqualification.
- Use of fire, water, colored powder, glitter, and any other dangerous props on stage is strictly prohibited.
Judging Criteria
Adherence to Classical Dance Form, Expression and Abhinaya, Technique and Skill, Costume and Presentation, Overall Performance and stage Presence
SOLO CLASSICAL DANCE (KTPO)
Dance Styles
- Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Odissi, Kuchipudi
Time limit
- 4 + 1 minute (empty stage to empty stage)
Music
- Must be handed over in a USB to the Event Head 2 hours before the event.
- Ensure music is cued and checked at the console.
- Must be handed over in a USB to the Event Head 2 hours before the event.
- Ensure music is cued and checked at the console.
Conduct
- Â Obscenity of any kind is not allowed and will lead to immediate disqualification.
- Use of fire, water, colored powder, glitter, and any other dangerous props on stage is strictly prohibited.
Judging Criteria
Adherence to Classical Dance Form, Expression and Abhinaya, Technique and Skill, Costume and Presentation, Overall Performance and stage Presence
GROUP CLASSICAL DANCE
Rules
- DANCE STYLES: Classical dance forms such as Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Odissi, and Kuchipudi
Music
- Devotional songs must be handed over in a USB to the Event Head 2 hours before the event.
- Ensure music is cued and checked at the console.
Team Size
- Team of 8 – 10 members
Duration
- 4+2 minutes (including setup and takedown).
Conduct
- Obscenity of any kind is strictly prohibited and will lead to immediate disqualification.
- No use of fire, water, colored powder, glitter, or any other dangerous props on stage.
Judging Criteria
Synchronization and Coordination, Technique and Precision, Expression and Emotion, Costume and Presentation, Cheering crowd Overall, Stage Presence.
DAHI HANDI
Objective
- Build the tallest human pyramid to break the Dahi handi in the shortest time.
Rules
- Teams have a maximum of 3 attempts to break the handi.
- No use of external aids or equipment.
- Pyramid must be stable for at least 5 seconds after breaking the handi.
Duration
- Time limit per team: 5 minutes.
Team Size
• 6 members per team.
Safety Measure
- Presence of medical personnel and first aid on-site.
- Soft landing surface to minimize injury risk.
Conduct
- No pushing, shoving, or unsportsmanlike behavior.
- Ensure all team members are safe and comfortable.
- No vulgar language or gestures.
Judging Criteria
Height of the pyramid, Time taken to break the handi, Stability of the pyramid, Cheering crowd, Team coordination and spirit.
FANCY DRESS
Costumes
-
Krishna: Dhoti, kurta, peacock feather crown, flute, jewelry.
-
Radha: Lehenga choli or saree, jewelry, bindi, dupatta.
Age Group
- 2-4yrs, 5-7yrs
Duration
-
Introduction and 3-minute enactment, dance, or story.
Materials to Carry
- Simple, safe props allowed (e.g., flute, flower garland).
Conduct
- Ensure costumes and props are safe and comfortable.
- No vulgar costumes or movements.
- No fire, water, colored powder, glitter, or dangerous props.
- No backdrop (screen for projection).
Judging Criteria
Costume Authenticity, Creativity, Confidence, Cheering crowd Expression and Interaction.
CONTEMPORARY DANCE (SOLO)
Rules
- DANCE STYLES: Freestyle, performed on devotional songs, allowing for creative expression with a spiritual touch.
Music
- Devotional songs must be handed over in a USB to the Event Head 2 hours before the event.
- Ensure music is cued and checked at the console.
Duration
- 4 + 2 minute (empty stage to empty stage)
Conduct
- Obscenity of any kind is strictly prohibited and will lead to immediate disqualification.
- No use of fire, water, colored powder, glitter, or any other dangerous props on stage.
Judging Criteria
Creativity and Originality in Devotional Context, Musicality and Rhythm, Expression and Spiritual Connection, Costume and Presentation, Cheering crowd, Overall Stage Presence.
CONTEMPORARY DANCE (GROUP)
Rules
- DANCE STYLES: Freestyle, allowing for creative expression across various dance forms, performed by a group of 8-10 members.
Music
- Devotional songs must be handed over in a USB to the Event Head 2 hours before the event.
- Ensure music is cued and checked at the console.
Duration
- 4+2 minutes (including setup and takedown).
Team Size
 A team of 8 -10 members
Conduct
- Obscenity of any kind is strictly prohibited and will lead to immediate disqualification.
- No use of fire, water, colored powder, glitter, or any other dangerous props on stage.
Judging Criteria
Creativity and Originality in Devotional Context, Musicality and Rhythm, Expression and Spiritual Connection, Costume and Presentation, Cheering crowd, Overall Stage Presence.
DIGITAL STORY TELLING
( ONLINE SUBMISSION )
Rules
- CATEGORIES: Short Videos, Animations, Graphic Novels
Theme
- Narrate pastimes from Krishna’s life
- Illustrate Krishna’s teachings are applicable in today’s world
Duration & Format
- Videos/Animations: Maximum 3 minutes. Submit in digital format (MP4 for videos/animations, PDF for graphic novels).
Submission
- Deadline: 20th August
- Include the title, participant’s name, age group, and contact details.
- Submit via email with drive link.
Technical Requirements
- Resolution: Minimum 720p for videos/animations.
- File size: Maximum 500 MB.
- Check compatibility of files before submission.
Originality
- Content must be original and created by the participant.
- No plagiarism; sources and inspirations must be credited.
Props and Effects
- No use of offensive or inappropriate content.
- Ensure all visual and audio elements are suitable for all audiences.
Judging Criteria
Creativity and Originality, Relevance to Theme, Technical Quality, Storytelling and Narrative, Visual and Audio Appeal.
Colours of Krishna
Painting Contest
Theme
- Depict the essence of Krishna, his life, or Janmashtami’s vibrant spirit.
Age Categories
- GROUP A(3 to 6 years), GROUP B(7 to 10 years), GROUP C(11 to 14 years), GROUP D (15 to 17 years) & GROUP E(17+ years)
Duration
- Â 1 hour
Materials to Carry
- Stationery kit, paints, and other painting supplies
Conduct
- Ensure a clean and safe painting environment.
- Avoid using offensive or inappropriate designs.
- Respect other participants and maintain a positive atmosphere.
- Clean up your area after the event.
Judging Criteria
Creativity and Originality, Relevance to the theme, Color Combination, Design, Neatness and Finish and Overall Aesthetic Appeal.
BATTLE OF BANDS
(Multilingual)
Competition Focus
- Bands showcase their creativity through unique musical arrangements of traditional devotional songs.
Music
- Bands must bring their own musical instruments and equipment.
- The team should be present 1 hour prior to the event at the venue for sound check.
Duration
- Each band will have a performance time of 10 + 3 (including setup) minutes.
Materials Provided
- Standard drum kit will be provided.
Conduct
- Respectful conduct and attire are expected from all participants.
- No use of offensive language or behavior.
- Ensure stage safety and cleanliness after each performance.Â
Judging Criteria
Creativity and Originality of Musical Arrangement, Musicality and Technical Skill, Expression of Devotion and Emotion, Cheering crowd, Stage Presence and Audience Engagement.