Panel

Our Judges

Meet the distinguished panel of experts who will evaluate performances at Just Koothu 2026.

Rajwinder Dev in traditional Kathak attire, red and gold costume, seated in dance pose against a dark background.

Rajwinder Dev

Rajwinder Dev is a passionate dancer and instructor who has been immersed in the world of dance for most of her life. She began her formal study of Kathak in 2014 and continued her training under the guidance of her esteemed Guru, Brittny Vanece, whose mentorship has been instrumental in shaping her artistic growth.

Rajwinder has performed at notable venues such as Carnegie Hall and local festivals, bringing a deep appreciation for rhythm, storytelling, and cultural expression to her performances and teaching. She also has extensive experience in Bhangra, Giddha, and Bollywood dance.

She holds a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry and a Master of Public Administration with a concentration in Health Policy. As a judge, Rajwinder brings both technical expertise and a supportive perspective, valuing creativity, expression, and growth in every dancer she evaluates.

Art of Kathak

Sareena Nagpal, professional portrait for the Just Koothu 2026 judging panel.

Sareena Nagpal

Sareena Nagpal is the founder of one of Cobb County's leading dance academies, with more than 1,600 students trained and over 250 stage performances to her name—including showcases at New York Fashion Week, with the Atlanta Braves, and at the Peachtree Road Race.

A performer who has shared the stage with Bollywood legends Govinda, Bhagyashree, and Celina Jaitley, Sareena brings both star power and seasoned expertise to her work. She is trained in Bollywood, Folk, Kathak, and Contemporary dance forms.

As a judge, Sareena brings a well-rounded and experienced eye to every performance, valuing technique, artistry, and the expression each dancer brings to the stage.

Naach Dance Academy

Uma Murlidhar in a red top, portrait from Planet U Performing Arts for the Just Koothu 2026 judging panel.

Uma Murlidhar

Uma Murlidhar is the renowned choreographer behind Planet U Performing Arts, the premier Bollywood dance school in Alpharetta, Atlanta. She has been teaching for over 20 years and leads a school known for exceptional Bollywood dancing, captivating performances, and annual recitals that showcase student talent while giving back to charitable causes.

Uma wants to use Planet U Fitness to expand the arts to more people. She believes Bollywood is meant to be enjoyed by anyone regardless of their culture or skill level. Students love her classes because after taking them, they walk away with full routines and an understanding of the fundamental movements.

Her passion for the arts and her natural ability to teach make her classes fun and energizing. As a judge, Uma brings an inclusive, encouraging perspective and a keen eye for choreography, technique, and the joy each dancer brings to the stage.

Planet U Performing Arts

Fair & Transparent Judging

Our judges evaluate each performance based on technique, artistry, choreography, and overall presentation. Every decision is made with integrity and respect for the art form.