Pangs of anxiety ran through his body, but he patiently waited for the MC to announce his team's act up next. He knew every step by heart, every marking on stage, every lyric, yet nervousness dawned on Ravi again, who waited to perform in front of hundreds of screaming fans.

Whether it's Kathak, Bollywood film, Bhangra, or Raas-garba, organizers are observing an increase of South Asians who willing to pay $20 to $100 per ticket to watch their friends or children perform on stage. With cash prizes often summing over $5,000, heavy media publicity, and winning pride, organizers easily lure dance teams to compete, and profit from those who attend to support. It?s no wonder there is a dance show every weekend these days. India Abroad was in attendance at two, so was Ravi.

The Bhangra Project, the first annual competition held on Sat October 21st at the Nash Theatre in NJ proved that trend just right. Comprised of teams all over North America, the show was a hit for those who attended. Ranjit Gil from the Canada team claimed his team would certainly return next year to "a show that truly brought back our traditional roots of Punjab, and it only helps that TBP organizers were so helpful all throughout."

Held on the same weekend of Diwali and Eid, and at a venue not too accessible by public transport, TBP had a mediocre turnout but energetic, traditional performances were in vogue that evening. The very famous Punjabi folk singer Sarbjit Cheema especially flew down for a live performance, making this event a huge hit! Congratulations to the winning teams:
first place, Gabroo Shokeen (San Jose, CA); second place, tied between Shan-E-Punjab/Rooh Punjab Di (Ontario, Canada) and Pyare Putt Ankhiley (Virginia).

Mission: Bhangra, a highly anticipated production held a week later, roped in 2,000 people at the Ritz Theatre in Elizabeth, NJ. This concert-like Bhangra show comprised of 9 Bhangra teams and though only few performances stood out, event-hype attracted attendees. Sponsored by MTV Desi and DirectTV, M:B entertained the audience with popular Punjabi artists Balwinder Safri, Jassi Sidhu, and Bikram Singh. Show participants mentioned that despite lacking organization, M:B did well for a first-time competition. Congratulations to the winning teams: first place, The Bhangra Team (New Jersey); second place, Phulorida Bhangra (Florida); and third place, Virsa: Our Tradition (New York).

Ravi, among many young South Asians, believes "competitive dance helps college kids network and meet other people, and gives us an outlet to relieve stress from school work and simply have fun." Organizers however, simply believe in supply-and-demand. Amit Sondhi, executive director of The Bhangra Project LLC notes, "there is so much talent out there, and the plethora of dance events can't go unnoticed, so why shouldn't we [organizers] bank on a unique concept and highlight the efforts of everyone?" People are willing to pay, dance groups are willing to perform, organizers have it all set for them.