Behes –Debate For All!
For over 15 years, Behes has been giving shape to the Indian debate scene by empowering students to become articulate leaders, master the art of persuasion and excel in both academic and real-world settings. Tournaments and Boot Camps across the country, all roads leading to the Maha Behes, our season finale!
We think, therefore we Are.
Discover and register for debate tournaments happening across India. Filter by your city to find events near you.
Empowering Young Minds
Students from rural schools discovering their voice through structured debate, building confidence that transforms their entire educational journey.
From empirical evidence to rhetorical finesse, the Behes community is committed to critical thinking, research methodology, and advanced analytical skills. Students (from class V onwards) all over the country study the Behes theme (See "Resources") and participate in regional debate tournaments, bidding to join India's brightest at the Maha Behes.
Shape the Future of Debate
Join thousands of passionate debaters, educators, and advocates who are transforming minds across India. Whether you're hosting tournaments, mentoring students, or spreading the Behes philosophy – every contribution matters.
Transforming Lives Through Debate
From classroom confidence to global stages – discover how Behes has shaped the journeys of thousands of debaters, educators, and thought leaders across India and beyond.
Got Questions? We've Got Answers
Your journey into the world of debate starts here. Find answers to common questions about tournaments, participation, and the Behes experience.
What is the Behes Format?
Free-flowing format • 3 speakers per team • 4 minutes per speaker
"Behes" follows a unique free-flowing format where three speakers make up a team and every speaker gets a maximum of four minutes to speak. There are no interjections, points of information or rebuttals allowed outside the allocated four minutes.
The preparation time is 15 minutes (8 minutes without internet, 7 minutes with). Every Behes round follows a group plus knock-out format, with top teams qualifying for the season finals (Maha Behes) held every December!
How old do I have to be to participate?
Cubs (Class 5-8) • Lions (Class 9-12) • Separate competitions • School ID required
There are two age divisions: Cubs (Class 5-8) and Lions (Class 9-12). The two age divisions compete separately at each event, including the Maha Behes. Participants must carry their school ID to confirm their classes. Please note that the participant's class on tournament day will be taken into account to determine their divisions.
Can I participate if my school isn’t?
Yes, we allow teams to register as individual delegations as well. Non-school delegations are fairly common at Behes events, and we also allow mixed or cross-school teams to participate. Just pick a team name and register for an event near you!"
How does one prepare for a tournament?
Behes debates are unique in that all the motions are derived out of an eclectic reading and viewing list that is refreshed every season. The themes covered in this list will be the basis for the motions unveiled at our tournaments. Read, watch, think and research. (Check out the Resources)"
What is the ‘Maha Behes’?
The Maha Behes is our labour of love to the community-held around June every year. It is a platform for the top teams from every round to face off against each other and to crown one final Champion Team at the end of the season. The Maha Behes is larger in scale than most other Behes events-and it closes every year with the Maha Behes Ball, an evening of fun, DJ’s and dancing! Here’s what it looks like.
How can I form a team?
Typically, a Behes team has three members from the same age category. In some cases, two-member teams are allowed to compete. In such cases, one member of the team speaks twice.
What are the awards on offer?
Behes announces best speaker rankings and awards top individual speakers, apart from Maha Behes qualification for top-performing teams. There’s also a best team name prize, so get creative!
What is the scoring criteria?
Every speaker at a Behes round is scored on Matter, Manner and Method.
Can I use devices and other resources to prepare?
Yes, feel free to carry phones, tablets etc. These will come in handy during your preparation time. These must be stowed away at the end of prep time, and then only printed/handwritten material will be allowed.
Do I have to come both days?
Yes, all participants must join us on day 2. While some of you will be eliminated, we still encourage teams to watch the latter stages. Don’t be surprised if you win a medal at the closing ceremony even if your team got knocked out! It brings us great joy to recognize the best and brightest in the community, so do stick around until the end.
Still have questions?
Our team is here to help you get started with your debate journey. Reach out to us anytime!