Federation of Indian Associations hosts successful 43rd Dance Pe Chance event

The annual cultural showcase featured nearly 870 performers from 18 dance academies in New Jersey.

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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The Federation of Indian Associations (FIA-NY-NJ-CT-NE) held its 43rd annual Dance Pe Chance (DPC) event on February 7, 2026 at the Patriots Theater in Trenton, New Jersey. The cultural showcase featured nearly 870 performers from 18 leading dance academies presenting 31 performances across various categories. The event celebrated India's 77th Republic Day and the 150th anniversary of the patriotic anthem Vande Mataram, and was attended by over 2,200 people including dignitaries, community leaders, and family members of the participants.

Why it matters

The Dance Pe Chance event is the flagship annual cultural program organized by the Federation of Indian Associations, one of the oldest and largest non-profit organizations representing Indian Americans in the northeastern United States. The event helps preserve and promote Indian cultural traditions within the diaspora community.

The details

This year's edition of Dance Pe Chance featured performances across Minor, Junior, Senior, and Adult categories by nearly 870 dancers from 18 leading dance academies. The event included classical, folk, Bollywood, and contemporary dance forms. Broadway-style production elements like a massive LED backdrop, immersive lighting, and elaborate costumes enhanced the performances. The event also recognized over 100 volunteers for their contributions, and honored winners in categories such as Best Choreography, Thematic Innovation, and Outstanding Spirit.

  • The 43rd edition of Dance Pe Chance was held on February 7, 2026.
  • The event celebrated India's 77th Republic Day, which fell on January 26.

The players

Federation of Indian Associations (FIA-NY-NJ-CT-NE)

One of the oldest and largest non-profit umbrella organizations representing Indian Americans in the northeastern United States.

Padmini Kolhapure

Bollywood actress who served as a judge for the event.

Supriya Doshi

Choreographer who served as a judge for the event.

Antima Chakraborty

Classical dance exponent who served as a judge for the event.

Priti Ray-Patel

DPC Chair who reflected on the four-decade legacy of the event.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, Grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

Planning is already underway for the 44th Edition of Dance Pe Chance in 2027, promising an even more spectacular celebration, organizers said.

The takeaway

The continued success and growth of the Dance Pe Chance event demonstrates the Federation of Indian Associations' commitment to preserving and promoting Indian cultural traditions within the Indian American diaspora community in the northeastern United States.