Mantrah cultural competition registration Not Open.
TERMS & CONDITIONS
Participant must be registered to attend the Mantrah 2025 convention before the registration deadline
Entries are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. Will only accept the number of registrations that fit into the schedule.
Entries to participate in the competition will be only through the online forms.
Any changes to originally submitted entries must be submitted through the event registration system again.
Participants age as on June 1, 2025, would be considered for the Age category
In both solo and group competition contestants are allowed to move to a level above their age group if their category doesn’t have enough participants except Thiruvathirakali and pageant.
Competition of any solo category will be cancelled if there are not more than 3 registrations.
Unless participants cancel their registration at least 2 weeks earlier to the event, competition will go on without disqualification to the points / title. Minimum 3 contestant rule will not be applicable in this situation.
An individual can participate only in 6 items, 4 solos and 2 groups. Pageant and Photography competition is not considered in the criteria above.
Kalathilakam or Kalaprathibha will be selected on the basis of total points earned in solo item and he/ she should win prizes in any two of the following categories (Literary, Theatre, Art, Music or Dance).
Photography and Pageant items are not considered towards Kalathilakam and Kalaprathibha.
Event registration must be paid in full, and music must be uploaded before the set deadline date. Also please send the music in the appropriate format to culturalhouston23@gmail.com. Organizers will not be responsible for audio failure or low audio quality.
Please carry a copy of the audio in a USB stick as backup.
ABSOLUTELY NO CHANGES A WEEK BEFORE THE COMPETITION, NO EXCEPTIONS.
Any participants who does not follow the rules will be disqualified.
All performances will be scored by a judging panel
Due to the privacy issues videography of competition event is limited to participant’s family.
Judge’s decision is FINAL and IRREVOCABLE
Rules & Regulations - Group Semi classical/ Contemporary Dance(21 and above) (Group Events)
Age category: as of 1 st of June 2025
5 to 8 years
9 to 14 years
15 to 20 years
21 and above
Number of participants - minimum 3 and maximum 8 people.
Duration of the dance should not be more than 5 minutes
Audio files should be submitted before the deadline.
Organizers will not be held responsible for audio failure or low audible quality.
Any team which doesn’t follow the rules will be disqualified.
All participants must be registered with the Mantrah before the program.
Judgement will be based on Judgement will be based on Nritta,Abhinaya,coordination,complexity and Ahaarya.
The judge’s decision will be final and irrevocable.
semiclassical from cinema/ albums/devotional music can be selected.
Person in Charge
Mantrah
704-388-7078
Mantrah
704-388-7078
Rules & Regulations - Group Semi classical/ Contemporary Dance(15 to 20) (Group Events)
Age category: as of 1 st of June 2025
5 to 8 years
9 to 14 years
15 to 20 years
21 and above
Number of participants - minimum 3 and maximum 8 people.
Duration of the dance should not be more than 5 minutes
Audio files should be submitted before the deadline.
Organizers will not be held responsible for audio failure or low audible quality.
Any team which doesn’t follow the rules will be disqualified.
All participants must be registered with the Mantrah before the program.
Judgement will be based on Judgement will be based on Nritta,Abhinaya,coordination,complexity and Ahaarya.
The judge’s decision will be final and irrevocable.
semiclassical from cinema/ albums/devotional music can be selected.
Organizers are not responsible for poor audio quality
Judgement will be based on Complexity, Choreography, formation, and overall presentation.
Person in Charge
Mantrah
704-388-7078
Mantrah
704-388-7078
Rules & Regulations
Pageant
Pageant Rounds details:
Western Round
Kerala round
Question & Answer session
This pageant is based on the contestants proficiency in Hinduism and knowledge of your roots - Kerala.
We will have 3 rounds. Western wear walk, kerala wear walk and Q&A sessions.
Appropriate clothing is expected at all times during the pageant. Outfits above mid thigh will not be allowed.
All contestants should be present at the designated area at least 10 minutes before call time.
Contestants are responsible for bringing their own costumes, accessories and shoes and it’s safety.
Each contestant can have only one helper with them backstage.
Contestants are responsible for their own hair and makeup.
Judgement is based on the different rounds in the pageant. Costume Creativity, Confidence, knowledge about your heritage/ roots and overall presentation is calculated towards judgement.
Judges decision is final and irrevocable.
Practice sessions will be through zoom and mandatory. Dates will be published in advance.
Person in Charge
Mantrah
704-388-7078
Mantrah
704-388-7078
Mural painting adults
Age category: As of 1 June 2025,
21 and above.
Duration of the Mural painting - 2 hours and 30 minutes.
The topic will be given on the spot.
Participants should bring all other required supplies except Paper / canvas.
Any participant who does not follow the rules will be disqualified.
Judgement will be based on interpretation, creativity, artistic skills, quality of work and technique.
The judge’s decision will be final and irrevocable.
Person in Charge
Mantrah
704-388-7078
Mantrah
704-388-7078
Narayaneeyam chanting
Age category: As of June 01, 2025.
a) Junior: 9 - 14 Years.
b) Senior: 15 - 20 Years.
c) Adult: 21 and above.
Chapter 38
9 to 14 years old category: first 6 verses.
15 years and above categories: All verses in chapter 38.
Introduction about the subject encouraged
The duration of the Narayaneeyam chanting item should not be more than 6 minutes.
Any person who doesn’t follow the rules will be disqualified.
Judgement will be based on pronunciation, modulation, expression, and articulation.
The judge’s decision will be final and irrevocable.
Person in Charge
Mantrah
704-388-7078
Mantrah
704-388-7078
Photography Competition
Photography contest has no age restriction.
Use only your cellphone to take pictures.
You will be asked to upload 1 picture to the prescribed folder.
Competition will happen on one of the convention days.
Photos must be taken on the prescribed day/time and uploaded with in the allotted time.
The photo must be in its original state , without any filters and cannot be altered in any way, including but not limited to removing, adding, reversing, or distorting subjects within the frame.
Violators will be removed from the contest.
Judges will pick only one winner.
Entries will not be accepted unless submitted via forms.
Photo entries will be judged based on creativity, quality, originality, responsiveness to the prompt and overall effect.
Judges decisions are final.
By entering the contest, entrants agree that photos submitted can be used by Mantrah.
Person in Charge
Mantrah
704-388-7078
Mantrah
704-388-7078
Mono Act
Age category: As of June 01, 2025.
Junior: 9 to 14 years
Senior: 15 to 20 years
Adult: 21 and above.
The duration of the performance should not be more than 5 mins.
No accompanists allowed.
Language of the act can be Malayalam/English only.
There are no restrictions on the theme.
Mime is not allowed.
No costumes or props allowed.
Use of obscene words will lead to disqualification.
Any participant who doesn’t follow the rules will be disqualified.
Judgement will be based on the content, script, dialogues presentation, acting, and confidence.
The judge’s decision will be final and irrevocable.
Person in Charge
Mantrah
704-388-7078
Mantrah
704-388-7078
Ottam Thullal
Duration of the performance is max 15 mins.
The language of the act must be predominantly Malayalam.
Obscenity and offensive gestures are strictly not allowed
Any participant who doesn’t follow the rules will be disqualified.
Judgement will be based on Rhythm, Akshara spudatha, Expression, Content, and presentation
Judge’s decision will be final and irrevocable.
Person in Charge
Mantrah
704-388-7078
Mantrah
704-388-7078
Essay Writing - English
Age category: As of June 1st, 2025,
Junior: 9 to 14 years
Senior: 15 to 20 years
Adult: 21 and above.
Maximum time allowed is 60 minutes
Topic will be given on the spot.
Maximum 1000 words
Judgment will be based on the development of the theme, composition, style, usage of language and originality.
Supplies will be provided.
The judge’s decision is final and irrevocable.
Person in Charge
Mantrah
704-388-7078
Mantrah
704-388-7078
Malayalam Poetry Recitation
Age category: as of 1 st of June 2025
a) Junior: 9 - 14 Years.
b) Senior: 15 - 20 Years.
c) Adult: 21 and above.
Duration of the Poetry item should not be more than 6 minutes.
Any person who doesn’t follow the rules will be disqualified.
Judgement will be based on the basis on Pronunciation, content, modulation, expression and articulation.
Judges decision will be final and irrevocable.
Person in Charge
Mantrah
704-388-7078
Mantrah
704-388-7078
Gita Chanting
Age category: As of June 01, 2025.
a) Junior: 9 - 14 Years.
b) Senior: 15 - 20 Years.
c) Adult: 21 and above.
Chapter 2
9 to 14 year old category : 2.11 to 2.20
15 and Above categories: 2.11 to 2.30
Introduction about the subject encouraged.
Duration of the Gita chanting item should not be more than 6 minutes.
Any person who doesn’t follow the rules will be disqualified.
Judgement will be based on pronunciation, modulation, expression, and articulation.
The judge’s decision will be final and irrevocable.
Person in Charge
Mantrah
704-388-7078
Mantrah
704-388-7078
Carnatic Music
Age category: as of 1st of June 2025
Junior: 9 to 14 years
Senior: 15 to 20 years
Adult : 21 and above.
The duration of the song should not be more than 7 minutes.
Participants can use Sruthi box during the competition. (Bring your own)
Judgement will be based on pronunciation, intonation, rhythm, pitch and for singing in tune.
The judge’s decision will be final and irrevocable.
Any participant who doesn’t follow the rules will be disqualified.
Bring your own Sruthi box.
Person in Charge
Mantrah
704-388-7078
Mantrah
704-388-7078
Light Music
Age category: as of 1st of June 2025
Junior: 9 to 14 years
Senior : 15 to 20 years
Adult : 21 and above.
The duration of the song should not be more than 5 minutes.
Participants can use Sruthi box during the competition. (Bring your own)
Judgement will be based on the basis of pronunciation, intonation, rhythm, pitch and for singing in tune.
Any participant who doesn’t follow the rules will be disqualified.
The judge’s decision will be final and irrevocable.
Registration cutoff date is April 21sst.
Bring your own Sruthi box.
Malayalam songs only.
Person in Charge
Mantrah
704-388-7078
Mantrah
704-388-7078
Kuchipudi
Age category: as of 1 st of June 2025
1) Junior :9 to 14 years
2) Seniors :15 to 20 years
3) Adult :21 and above
Dance should not be more than 6 minutes.
Judgement will be based on Nritta,Abhinaya,Angasudhi,Layasudhi,Ahaarya ( costume) .
Music should be authentic, classical Kuchupudi songs. No movie songs
Audio files should be submitted before the deadline
Organizers will not be held responsible for audio failure or low audible quality
Judge’s decision will be final and irrevocable.
Any participant who doesn’t follow the rules will be disqualified.
Person in Charge
Mantrah
704-388-7078
Mantrah
704-388-7078
Folk Dance
Age category: As of June 01, 2025.
Junior: 9 to 14 years
Senior: 15 to 20 years
Adult: 21 and above.
The duration of the dance should not be more than 5 minutes.
Judgement will be based on Nritta, Nrithya, Aharya, Complexity of rhythm, Props, and overall presentation.
Audio files should be submitted before the deadline.
Malayalam songs only.
Organizers will not be held responsible for audio failure or low audible quality.
The judge’s decision will be final and irrevocable.
Any participant who doesn’t follow the rules will be disqualified.
Registration cut off date is April 21st .
Person in Charge
Mantrah
704-388-7078
Mantrah
704-388-7078
Mohiniyattam
Age category: as of 1 st of June 2025
i) Junior: 9 to 14 years
ii) Senior: 15 to 20 years
iii) Adult: 21 and up
Each participant will be allowed up-to a max of 6 min.
Only Classical/ Sopanam Music Allowed.
Judgement will be based on Nritta,Abhinaya,Angasudhi,Layasudhi,Ahaarya ( costume) .
Audio files should be submitted before the deadline
Organizers will not be held responsible for audio failure or low audible quality
Judge’s decision will be final and irrevocable.
Any participant who doesn’t follow the rules will be disqualified.
Person in Charge
Mantrah
704-388-7078
Mantrah
704-388-7078
Bharathanatyam
Age category : as of 1 st of June 2025
i) Junior: 9 to 14 years
ii) Senior: 15 to 20 years
iii) Adult: 21 and above
Duration of the dance should not be more than 6 mins
No movie songs
Judgement will be based on Nritta,Abhinaya,Angasudhi,Layasudhi,Ahaarya ( costume) .
Audio files should be submitted before the deadline
Organizers will not be held responsible for audio failure or low audible quality
Judge’s decision will be final and irrevocable.
Any participant who doesn’t follow the rules will be disqualified.
Person in Charge
Mantrah
704-388-7078
Mantrah
704-388-7078
Fancy dress solo
Age category: As of June 01, 2025.
Sub Junior: 5 to 8 years
Junior: 9 to 14 years
Senior: 15 to 20 years
Adult : 21 and above.
Each participant will be allowed a time limit of 1-2 minutes including narration.
Judgement will be based on character portrayed, presentation skills and creativity.
Audio files should be submitted before the deadline.
Organizers will not be held responsible for audio failure or low audible quality.
Keep costume and character appropriate.
Any participant who doesn’t follow the rules will be disqualified.
The judge’s decision will be final and irrevocable.
Person in Charge
Mantrah
704-388-7078
Mantrah
704-388-7078
Painting- Kids (Watercolor)
Age category: as of 1 st of June 2025.
Sub Junior: 5 to 8 years
Junior: 9 to 14 years
Senior: 15 to 20 years
Allotted time -90minutes
Topic will be given on the spot.
Paper will be provided but participants should bring all other required materials.
Any participant who does not follow the rules will be disqualified.
Judgement will be based on clarity, creativity, originality, eristic skills, and techniques.
The judge’s decision will be final and irrevocable.
Person in Charge
Mantrah
704-388-7078
Mantrah
704-388-7078
Carnatic Violin
Age category: as of 1 st of June 2025
Junior: 9 to 14 years
Senior : 15 to 20 years
Adult : 21 and above.
The duration of the song should not be more than 7 minutes.
Participants can use Sruthi box during the competition. (Bring your own)
Any participant who doesn’t follow the rules will be disqualified.
Judgement will be based on intonation, rhythm, pitch and for playing in tune.
The judge’s decision will be final and irrevocable.
Person in Charge
Mantrah
704-388-7078
Mantrah
704-388-7078
Free Dance solo
Age category: as of 1 st of June 2025
5 to 8 years
Children can choose from the following categories. classical/ semi classical/ folk / Bollywood etc.
Duration of the dance should not be more than 5 mins
Appropriate song selection expected.
Judgement will be based on Nritta,Abhinaya,Layasudhi,Ahaarya ( costume) and overall presentation.
Audio files should be submitted before the deadline
Organizers will not be held responsible for audio failure or low audible quality
Judge’s decision will be final and irrevocable.
Any participant who doesn’t follow the rules will be disqualified.