Different Aspects of the Bengali Kirtan in Contemporary West Bengal

Abstract: ‘Kirtan’ is a very popular and strong musical practice that exists Indian Music since very ancient times and grew as the main element of Vaishnavite Bhakti Movement as well as religious awakening and still in practice in different form almost everywhere in India. In this context, we must first talk about Bengal. Because Kirtan is the greatest treasure of Bengal. This study investigates the socio-economic and religio-cultural history of Bengali kirtan in contemporary West Bengal. It critically examines the contemporary form of Bengali Padabali Kirtan, emergence of Women Kirtaniyas, various aspects regarding famous Kirtan Asars and Kirtan Melas, Bengali Kintan's journey as a Popular Music in Bengali film industry and also the reasons behind the decline of this tradition, the institutionalization process of Bengali Kirtan, influence of other musical traditions on Bengali Kirtan and above all the decadence process of traditional Bengali Padabali Kirtan of rural Bengal by the influence of modernity. Actually, the main aim of this study is to make the society aware about the importance of this rich form of music so that this musical tradition can be revived, retain and remain forever as the tradition of Bengali Culture.