Last Updated: 15-August-2025
Section 1 – Painting competition (Section 2.3 of Rules and Guidelines)
Q.1.1. What type of paint can I use?
Up to Age 7 Category:
- Contestants in this group will be provided with a drawing to colour.
- Only crayons, colour pencils, and sketch pens are permitted.
All Other Age Groups:
Only water-based paints are allowed. This includes:
- Watercolours
- Acrylic paints
- Watercolour pens
Q.1.2. Can I use oil paints?
No, oil paints are not permitted in the competition. Only water-based paints are allowed for eligible age groups, such as watercolours, acrylics, and watercolour pens.
Q.1.3. Can I use acrylic paints?
Yes, acrylic paints are allowed for all age groups except the Up to Age 7 category.
They fall under the approved list of water-based paints permitted in the competition.
Section 2: Essay Writing (Section 2.5 of Rules and Guidelines)
Q.2.1. In what language is the Essay Writing competition conducted?
Competitions for 08-10, 11-13, 14-17 and 18-24 age groups will only be in English.
For Adults age group, the competition will be conducted in Malayalam and English. The contestant can take part in either English or Malayalam Essay writing competition. They will not be allowed to take part in both English and Malayalam competitions.
Section 3: Single Dance, Group Dance and Margam Kali (Section 2.10, 2.11 & 2.13 of Rules and Guidelines)
Q.3.1. Can Alta or any red colour substitute be used?
No, the use of Alta or any red-coloured dyes is strictly prohibited. These substances have previously caused significant damage to the venue and therefore, are not allowed under any circumstances.
Q.3.2. Can I apply Mylanji or Alta the day before and still take part in the competition?
No, this is not allowed. Since we cannot verify when the colour was applied, any visible use of Mylanji or Alta will be considered a violation of the rules—regardless of when it was applied.
Q.3.3. What happens if a Group uses red or any colour on feet or hands during the performance?
If any member of a group comes to the stage with red colour (or any prohibited dye) applied to their feet or hands, the entire group will not be allowed to perform.
Q.3.4. I had applied the colour for a different event few weeks ago. There are some traces of the colour, or the colour is still there. Can I participate?
Unfortunately, no. Even if the colour was applied for a different event and is only partially visible, any trace of prohibited dyes like Alta, red coloured dye or Mylanji on the feet or hands will result in disqualification. To ensure fairness and protect the venue, all participants must have completely clean skin on hands and feet. You will not be allowed to perform with any trace of colour on your feet or hands. It is the contestant’s responsibility to ensure full compliance with the Rules and Guidelines.
Q.3.5. Can Christian songs in any language be used for solo or group dance?
Yes, Christian songs in any language are permitted for both solo and group dance performances. However, please note that choosing a language which is unfamiliar to the judges may affect scoring.
However, it is important to ensure that the chosen song is appropriate and does not conflict with Christian values in its lyrics, theme, or presentation.
Section 4: Keyboard Competition (Section 2.12 of Rules and Guidelines)
Q.4.1. How will the competition be conducted?
A list of songs has already been provided for each age group in the Rules and Guidelines. Contestants are expected to learn all the songs in their group’s list.
On the day of the competition, each contestant will be asked to perform one specific song from that list.
Q.4.2. When will I know which song I should play?
The selected song will be disclosed to each participant five minutes before their performance. Participants must not share or reveal the chosen song to others to ensure fairness.
Q.4.3. How many songs should I learn?
Make sure to learn all the songs in your age group’s list so you’re ready for whichever one is chosen!
Q.4.4. What does it mean that the lead instrument must be strings?
The term “strings” refers to the sound typically produced by a group of violins playing together—often labelled as “string ensemble” or similar on keyboards. This sound is generally consistent across different keyboard brands and models, which helps ensure a fair playing field for all contestants. That’s why the lead instrument used during the performance must be set to a string sound.
Q.4.5. Can I use any other tones alongside the lead instrument (strings)?
Yes, you may use additional tones in your arrangement. However, when playing the vocal melody of the song, you must use the string sound as the lead instrument. For instrumental sections, you’re free to use other tones to enhance your performance.
Q.4.6. Can I refer to musical notations while playing the Keyboard
Yes, you may choose to refer to musical notations or play from memory—whichever you’re more comfortable with. Your choice will not affect the judging in any way.
Tip: Memorisation may give you an advantage by enabling you to maintain a commanding stage presence.
Q.4.7. Will you provide any musical notations for the songs?
We will not be providing any musical notations.
Section 5: General FAQs
Q.5.1. I am not participating – can I still visit the venue to watch the Kalotsavam?
Absolutely! You’re warmly welcome to attend as part of the audience and enjoy the performances.
Q.5.2. Is there an entrance fee to visit the Kalotsavam venue?
No, attendance is completely free. However, if you’d like to support the event, voluntary donations to the Kalotsavam fund are warmly welcome.