– New Brunswick, N.J.
Bollywood took center stage at the State Theater in New Brunswick, N.J., on Jan. 29 as Indian-American children of varying ages performed dance numbers that paid tribute to Hindi films.
As family members, friends and choreographers cheered and applauded, more than 30 teams danced to a variety of compositions from films like “Kal Ho Naa Ho,” “Dhoom 2,” Jodhaa Akbar,” “Jab We Met” and the ever-popular “Slumdog Millionaire.”
Hosted by the Federation of Indian Associations (FIA) of New York, New Jersey and Connecticut, “Dance pe Chance,” was part of the organization’s celebrations to commemorate India’s 62nd Republic Day.
“The dance competition is a 30-year-old legacy that is an integral part of the FIA’s core philosophy: preservation and promotion of Indian culture and arts,” Rupal Patel, one of the organizers of the event, told Desi Talk.
The FIA believes the competition provides a platform for Indian-American dancers and choreographers to showcase their talent and demonstrate a connection between modern techniques and traditional forms.
Participants at the event recreated the magic of their favorite movie stars and the aura of Bollywood’s glitz and glamour.
Dance groups spanning the tristate area of New Jersey, New York and Connecticut competed for prizes in the senior, junior, minor, costumes and choreography categories, Patel said. At least 24 choreographers were involved with the teams.
“It was a full-house event,” Patel said.
Prabhu Dayal, consul general of India in New York; Dr. Poonam Alaigh, New Jersey Commissioner of Health and Senior Services; Old Bridge Councilwoman Lucille Panos of Ward 6; and New Jersey Assemblyman Samuel D. Thompson, a Republican, were among the dignitaries who attended the event.
Dr. Sudhir M. Parikh, publisher of Desi Talk and a former FIA president and trustee, introduced the consul general. In his address, Dayal congratulated all the participants and commended the FIA for its various endeavors.
The evening began with an address by FIA Secretary Haresh Hemrajani, followed by the introduction of the Republic Day committee and a speech by the outgoing president, Nirav Mehta. The new team for 2011 led by President Bipin Patel was sworn in, after which past FIA presidents joined various dignitaries for the traditional lamp-lighting ceremony.
Radio personality Mamta Narula  compered the event. Participants included the Diwakar Performing Arts Group, Satrangi School of Fusion, Kalanjali School of Dance and the India Performing Arts Center.
The judges for the event included Rohini Singh, director of strategic entertainment for Saavn; Rimli Roy, founder and director of Surati; Mansi Patel, a choreographer; Rahul Chatlani, choreographer; and Romanee R. Kalicharan, Kathak dancer and instructor.