Competition Rules

Competition Rules:

1. Eligibility

• Open to all dancers ages 18+. Dancers don't have to be former Boston Bollywood dancers.
• Entries must consist of:
  • Duet (2 dancers)
• Dancers may compete in only one entry.
• All participants must complete registration before the deadline - July 25th
• Dancers must be residents of Massachusetts, New Hampshire or Rhode Island.
• Dancers must fill the Jhoom 2026 Registration Form -- Dancers will be notified via email if they have been accepted into the competition within 2 business days

2. Dance Style

• Choreography must be primarily inspired by Bollywood.
• Fusion styles are permitted (Contemporary, Hip-Hop, Semi-Classical, Folk, Jazz, etc.) as long as Bollywood remains the dominant influence.
• All choreography must be original and created by the competing dancers.
• All choreography must be original to Jhoom 2026 and may not have been previously presented in a Boston Bollywood show or workshop.

3. Time Limit

• Minimum Length: 60 seconds
• Maximum Length: 90 seconds

4. Music Requirements

• Music must be submitted in MP3 format by July 28th
• Music must be edited into a single track.

5. Performance Order

• Performance order will be determined by random draw.

6. Judging Criteria
Choreography (30 Points)

• Creativity
• Musicality
• Use of formations and partner work
• Storytelling (if applicable)

Technique (25 Points)

• Precision
• Cleanliness
• Control
• Execution

Performance Quality (25 Points)

• Energy
• Expressions
• Stage Presence
• Confidence

Partnership & Synchronization (20 Points)

• Connection between dancers
• Timing
• Teamwork
• Trust and chemistry

Total: 100 Points
7. Props

• Handheld props are permitted.
• Props must be carried on and off stage by competitors.
• No liquids, powders, confetti, glitter, fire, or dangerous materials.

8. Costume Requirements

• Costumes should be secure and audience appropriate.
• Costume malfunctions remain the responsibility of competitors.

9. Sportsmanship: Competitors are expected to:

• Treat fellow dancers with respect.
• Support other competitors.
• Demonstrate professional conduct throughout the event.

Unsportsmanlike behavior may result in deductions or disqualification.
10. Awards:

• Champion
• Runner-Up

11. Media Release
​By registering, participants grant permission for photographs and videos from the event to be used for promotional purposes.