Shap Khela, also called the Snake Game, is a traditional game found in Bangladesh that establishes a deep-rooted relationship between man and nature. Shap Khela, however, is predominantly practiced in villages during the carnivals, especially during specific religious observances and, eventually, local fairs. The Snake game intertwines performance with respect to nature. It has been a popular genre in the myths and folktales of Bangladesh.
Origins and Cultural Significance of Shap Khela
Shap Khela, as an art form, can be seen as deeply rooted in Bengali civilization, with its evidence dating back to when snakes, in general, and more so the cobra, were feared but worshipped; that is its history. Within Hinduism, snakes have been associated with a variety of religious connotations, particularly Manasa Devi, who happens to be the deity for lots of devotees in Bangladesh and the West Bengal region. Most of the performance of Shap Khela is performed during the ritualistic festival of worshiping the Goddess Manasa, who they pray from the snake charmers to bless and safeguard them. These are mostly in the form of dramatizations that seek to not only amuse audiences but also bring to the fore the relevance of animals that share space with human beings.
Snake charming, as an art form, has always been preserved amongst the families who practice it as an occupation and a means of worship. For these families, snakes are not viewed simply as animals but as benevolent God, enigma, and life and death in one’s being.
The Performance
Shap Khela’s performance is not just an art; at times, it involves looking for the courage to go through the actions. Called bede, snake charmers depend on extensive experience and understanding of snakes in order to manipulate them without any risks. For performance, the charmers incorporate all the elements of the show, including the bamboo flutes and hand drums, to bring the audience into a trance. The snakes, especially the cobras, respond by moving their bodies to the beat as though they are dancing.
Charmers who appear daring handle and dance with the snakes in a systematic and planned sequence of events. They enact teasing of the snakes so that they attack, and just at the end of the strike, they step out of the way, captivating the audience. Behind each performance of the charmers, there are years of practice and knowledge of snakes that make it seem as though one is being effortless while performing.
However, not all performers have to play with fire. Some of the Shap Khela shows where non-venomous snakes could be introduced and where venom gland-free snakes could be employed. The technique has raised concerns of animal rights activists who believe it poses a risk to the snakes and may lead to stress for them.
Shap Khela in the Present
Similarly, in Bangladesh, Shap Khela has not lost its place in the Bangladeshi culture, but many factors, including the changing perspective on animals, also hinder this practice. With the growing concern for wildlife, traditional practices have been criticized for how snakes are treated. Animal rights groups have, in recent times, demanded new rules that prevent snakes from getting injured during performances. In addition, as rural areas become urbanized, the need for Shap Khela has become less since most people are now engaging in modern types of entertainment.
Despite the challenges it faces, Shap Khela continues to be a significant part of rural festivals and fairs in Bangladesh. Its ability to captivate and intrigue its audience, with its cultural undertones and sense of menace, ensures that it remains an important part of the country’s cultural fabric. For many, Shap Khela is a reminder that humans and nature are not adversaries but rather integral parts of life.
Shap Khela is not merely a show of prowess; it is, in fact, a continuing tradition that encompasses the spiritual and cultural history of the Bangladeshi land. There is no doubt that the practice of Shap Khela may undergo modification as we move forward with time, But precisely what will never change is that bond of man and snake. It is something that will continue to be and remains to be a great piece of folklore in this nation.
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