Viral Mapangale Dance Faces Backlash Over Violent Undertones
Key takeaways
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- The “Mapangale” dance, characterized by its unique style and energetic movements, has become a viral sensation among Kenyan youth, popularized through social media and in local clubs.
- Viral videos from the popular TikTok video-sharing platform show excited youth including celebrities vibing to the dance.
- The initial excitement surrounding the Mapangale dance quickly turned sour as critics condemned it for glorifying violence.
- While some label it as primitive, others view it as supportive of violence, especially against women.
Also read: Isaac Mwaura Removed From State House WhatsApp Groups Over Alleged Poor Performance
Mapangale: Unpacking the controversial dance moves
Mapangale is a new Kenyan dance style involving two dancers facing each other and mimicking the action of chopping with a machete using their arms.
The dance is characterized by its energetic movements and rhythmic style, triggering a viral trend on social media.
While many find the dance entertaining and creative, others have criticized it for its violent undertones and potential to promote aggression.
Leading Kenyan content creators Crazy Kennar and Mjaka Mfine hoped on the challenge in a hilarious Mapangale video that has taken over social platforms.
The Dark Side of the Mapangale Dance
Despite its initial popularity, the Mapangale dance faced strong criticism from a section of social media users who argued that its provocative moves and aggressive lyrics could incite violence.
Kenyans have condemned the style in light of the rising violence against women.
The media has reported gruesome murders, where female victims have been subjected to horrific acts of violence, including dismemberment and disposal of their bodies in public places.
Urban Tone star Tipsy Gee has expressed concerns over the dance challenge, saying it doesn’t sit well with him.
The Kenyan music sensation has also refused to compose music around this trend citing the current instability and rising femicides in Kenya.
“Mapangale sounds so violent and demonic. I don’t do music for views or to trend. I feel that music is very spiritual. With the current femicide wave and political instability I cannot consider Mapangale for music inspiration,” said Tipsy Gee in a recent interview.
Female content creator Mjaka Mfine has also apologized for doing the challenge with fellow content creator Crazy Kennar.
Below are some of the “Mapangale” dance reactions by Kenyans on X:
“Mapangale challenge or whatever it is, is giving low IQ vibes and primitive behavior.” wrote @iamjoseh_
“That mapangale dance is the weirdest move I’ve seen since mtoe gully creepa, who dances as if he wants to be chopped with a panga aty sasa unatingisha shingo??,” added @_GreatnessTupu
“The war against Mapangale is all about Classicism. Watu wa Uptown hawapendi trend ya downtown,” @I_MACDONALD
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