Alkap : The traditional folk dance of Bengal

Alkap is an extinct form of dance in Bengal.

Alkap Dance, Source : Google

The alkap is a popular dance form of Bengal. In the past, a few districts in West Bengal were associated with this kind of dance. Regardless, the Alkap public dance structure eventually reached Jharkhand and Bihar as well.

Today, the alkap dance style is nearly extinct. This dance form, once was well-known to notable authors, poets, and dancers. By depicting mythological tales, instances of social injustice, and a variety of other fascinating subjects, Alkap aims to entertain the rural populace. The Alkap dance was once performed by people to imitate lords and landowners. The sexual tones and young men dressed as women made this dance appealing. In order to specifically cater to the preferences of the audience, the dance structure has undergone a number of changes over time.

Alkap Dance Performance combines dance, drama, and music. Similarity exists between Alkap and Jatra, a form of rural theater. In this musical drama, a group of people dance and sing songs with dialogue. Both men and women can perform alkap. Ten to twelve people simultaneously perform the Alkap dance.Five parts make up this performance. The initial section goes by the name Asar Vandana. It is a prayer song that is sung prior to the dance. The younger boys in the group then read poems about the Chhora dance. During the third stage, which is known as kaap, the dance is performed. The musical performance of Baithaki Gaan comes next. The final event is the Khemta Pala, in which dance and music are used to tell a story.Sarkar, or guru, is the title given to the leader of the Alkap Dance Group. There are a few young men in the Chhokras group. Additionally, there are musicians and dancers in the group. Their combined efforts result in the success of the Alkap performance.

There is no formal dress code for the Alkap dance. Men wear dhotis, or matching shirts and pants. They cover their heads with a piece of cloth. The costumes worn by the young men in the dance are appropriate to the roles they play. Traditional sarees and light makeup are worn by the women.

Nowadays, this dance form is rarely performed.