TRENTON, NJ (TIP): The Federation of Indian Associations (FIA) NY-NJ-CT-NE celebrated its largest turnout with their annual ‘Dance Pe Chance’ (DPC) competition on February 1, 2025, at the Patriots Theater at the War Memorial in Trenton, NJ. Due to an overwhelming response and a record-breaking 800+ participants, this year’s event ran longer than previous editions, drawing over 2,000 spectators for an extended evening of vibrant performances.
The event showcased 33 craft-fully choreographed performances by community participants aged 6 to 60 from 15 dance academies across four states. Broadway-style dance compilations were supported by a massive LED backdrop, state-of-the-art lighting, and elaborate costumes that brought Indian cultural storytelling to life through dance. Hon. Consul General of India, Mr. Binaya S. Pradhan administered the oath of office to the newly elected FIA Executive Committee. He announced significant developments including a new Indian Consulate in Boston, MA, a satellite office in New Jersey, and the Consulate’s new year-round operations.
The distinguished judging panel included renowned dancer and actor Salman Yusuff Khan, Indian dancer Josephine Madhuri Verghese, Nupoor Art Academy founder Mamta Patel, and Yuva Dance Academy Creative Director Miral Shah.
FIA Chairman Ankur Vaidya emphasized DPC’s volunteer-driven nature, powered by over 100 dedicated volunteers, and thanked the dance choreographers, participants, parents, sponsors and War Memorial Theatre.
FIA President Saurin Parikh highlighted the event’s core mission of craftily engaging the diaspora’s youth while showcasing culture and heritage. DPC Chair Priti Ray Patel applauded the event’s role in unifying diverse communities through performing arts. The FIA committee presence included FIA Convenor 2025, Sreekanth Akkapalli, CEO of TV9 North America, and FIA Grand Gala Chair Manan Saxena. Mamta Narula and Nishil Parikh served as the Emcees for the event.
The event’s success was contributed by sponsors including CGI-NY, ONYX Edge, The Diaspora Bi-weekly, TV9 USA, Parikh Worldwide Media, TV Asia, The South Asian Times, New India Abroad, The Indian Panorama, ITV Gold, Subway. FIA’s Dance Pe Chance 41st Edition concluded with awards across multiple categories, celebrating the participants’ dedication and artistic excellence while strengthening community bonds through cultural expression.
(Based on press Release)
