Film 3 Meter Di Atas Langit Sub Indo
Doris Joo
The culture of Indonesia (Indonesian: Budaya Indonesia) has been shaped by the interplay of indigenous customs and diverse foreign influences. With over 1,300 distinct ethnic groups, including significant Austronesian and Melanesian cultures, contributing to its rich traditions, languages, and customs, Indonesia is a melting pot of diversity. Positioned along ancient trade routes between the Far East, South Asia, and the Middle East, the country has absorbed cultural practices influenced by Hinduism, Buddhism, Confucianism, Islam, and Christianity. These influences have created a complex cultural tapestry that often differs from the original indigenous cultures.
Examples of the fusion of Islam with Hinduism include Javanese Abangan belief. Balinese dances have stories about ancient Buddhist and Hindu kingdoms, while Islamic art forms and architecture are present in Sumatra, especially in the Minangkabau and Aceh regions. Traditional art, music and sport are combined in a martial art form called Pencak Silat.
The Western world has influenced Indonesia in science, technology and modern entertainment such as television shows, film and music, as well as political system and issues. India has notably influenced Indonesian songs and movies. A popular type of song is the Indian-rhythmical dangdut, which is often mixed with Arabic, Javanese and Malay folk music.
Despite the influences of foreign culture, some remote Indonesian regions still preserve uniquely indigenous culture. Indigenous ethnic groups Batak, Nias, Mentawai, Asmat, Dani, Sumba, Dayak, Toraja and many others are still practising their ethnic rituals, customs and wearing traditional clothes.[1]
Indonesia treasures a diverse range of traditional music, notably from Java and Bali, where gamelan holds a central place. Originating in Java, gamelan is renowned for its intricate compositions and unique ensemble of instruments, including metallophones like gambang and bonang, as well as resonant gongs such as kenong and gong ageng.[2] Beyond its musical complexities, gamelan embodies profound cultural narratives and communal identities, playing a pivotal role in rituals, ceremonies, and local storytelling traditions.[3] The rhythmic patterns and melodic interplays reflect a deep connection to spiritual and social contexts, offering insight into the historical and philosophical underpinnings of Indonesian society. UNESCO's designation of gamelan as a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity underscores its cultural importance in Indonesia.[4]
The angklung, a traditional musical instrument from West Java made from bamboo, has also received international recognition from UNESCO as part of the intangible cultural heritage.[10] In contrast, the Sasando from East Nusa Tenggara features an instrument made from a split leaf of the Lontar palm, resembling a harp and producing a soothing sound.[11]
Other notable traditional music genres in Indonesia include Tanjidor from Betawi culture in Jakarta,[13] involving a brass and woodwind ensemble, and Jaipongan from West Java, combining Sundanese music with dance.[14] In the Maluku Islands, Sawat Lenso dance music blends Portuguese and local influences, featuring instruments like the rebana (tambourine) and the ukulele. The music of Nias includes unique instruments such as the aramba (a type of gong) and the doli-doli (a type of slit drum).
Dangdut, a genre that emerged in the 1970s, is a blend of local Indonesian music with Indian, Arabic, and Javanese, Malay influences. It is characterized by its distinct drum beat and flute melodies. Dangdut has become one of the most popular music genres in Indonesia, known for its lively rhythms and often performed at various social gatherings and events.[16][17]
Indonesian dance reflects the rich diversity of culture from the many ethnic groups that compose the nation of Indonesia. The dances showcase Austronesian roots, Melanesian tribal dance forms, and influences from foreign countries such as Indian subcontinent, Mainland China, and the Middle East, as well as European styles introduced during colonization. With over 3,000 distinct dances, each ethnic group contributes its own unique styles and traditions. Indonesian dances can be categorized into three historical eras: the Prehistoric Era, the Hindu-Buddhist Era, and the Islamic Era, and they fall into two main genres: court dance and folk dance.[18]
Sumatra showcases a rich tapestry of traditional dances that highlight its cultural diversity. In West Sumatra, the Tari Piring (Plate Dance) demonstrates skill in balancing plates with graceful movements, symbolizing harmony and elegance.[19] Aceh's Saman dance captivates with its fast-paced rhythm and synchronized movements performed by groups, embodying communal and spiritual values. In 2011, UNESCO officially recognized Aceh's traditional Saman dance as an Intangible Cultural Heritage in Need of Urgent Safeguarding.[20] In North Sumatra, the lively Tor-tor dance, performed by the Batak people, is known for its energetic movements and significant ritualistic role.[21][22] Riau stands out with the elegant Melayu dance, characterized by graceful gestures often seen at ceremonial occasions. Meanwhile, Jambi and Bangka Belitung celebrates the Zapin dance, seamlessly blending Arabic influences with local traditions. Gending Sriwijaya in South Sumatra preserves the cultural legacy of the ancient Srivijaya Empire through its rhythmic music and intricate choreography.[23]
In Java, court dances like Bedhaya and Serimpi are performed in the royal courts of Yogyakarta and Surakarta. Bedhaya, considered sacred, features slow, deliberate movements symbolizing harmony between earthly and divine realms. Serimpi emphasizes grace and refinement, often depicting stories from Javanese mythology and royal traditions with elegant movements and intricate patterns.[24][25][26]
The topeng dance (Mask Dance) is another prominent Javanese tradition where dancers wear masks portraying characters from Javanese folklore, history, and mythology. Accompanied by traditional gamelan music, the dance combines dramatic and theatrical elements. Gambyong dance, known for its graceful movements, is performed during ceremonies and celebrations in Central Java. This dance conveys messages of joy and cultural pride, showcasing Javanese aesthetics and values influenced by Hindu, Buddhist, and Islamic traditions that have shaped Java's artistic landscape over centuries.[27][28] Folk dances like Kuda Lumping feature performers mimicking riding horses made of woven bamboo. This energetic dance, accompanied by lively gamelan music, highlights rhythmic movements that captivate audiences.[29] Reog, originating from Ponorogo, East Java, combines dance, drama, and elaborate costumes to depict mythical stories and mystical creatures with powerful movements and mesmerizing displays.[30][31]
In Bali, dance forms a fundamental aspect of the culture, encompassing various genres such as Wali (sacred dances), Bebali (semi-sacred dances), and Balih-balihan (entertainment dances). in 2015 UNESCO recognizes three genres of traditional dance in Bali, as -Intangible cultural heritage.[32] The island's dances are characterized by their profound spiritual significance and vibrant artistic expressions. One of the most celebrated dances is the Legong, known for its delicate finger movements, intricate footwork, and expressive gestures that narrate mythical stories and cultural themes.[33] Another iconic Balinese dance is the Barong dance, a dramatic performance portraying the eternal battle between good (Barong) and evil (Rangda). This dance is not only a cultural ritual but also a captivating theatrical spectacle that mesmerizes audiences with its elaborate costumes, dynamic choreography, and symbolic narrative.[34]
In Kalimantan, the Dayak people uphold rich cultural traditions through their captivating performances, one of which is the Hudoq dance. This vibrant and intricate dance involves wearing elaborate masks and costumes designed to represent various spirits. The Hudoq is not merely a performance but a profound spiritual ritual aimed at seeking blessings for a bountiful harvest.[36] The Kancet Papatai, which depicts scenes of bravery and heroism, is a significant part of Dayak culture. This dance tells stories of ancient warriors and their battles, using energetic movements and traditional weaponry to convey a sense of valor and strength.[37]
Kalimantan is also home to the Banjarese. The Banjar people perform the Baksa kembang dance, a graceful and elegant performance that involves intricate hand movements and beautiful floral arrangements. This dance is often performed at weddings, celebratory events, and to welcome guests, symbolizing beauty and prosperity.[38][39]
In Sulawesi, traditional dances serve as vibrant expressions of cultural heritage, offering unique insights into local traditions and values. One such example is the Poco-poco, originating from North Sulawesi, which has transcended borders to become popular, notably in Malaysia. However, controversy erupted in early April 2011 when Malaysian Islamic clerics banned the Poco-Poco dance for Muslims, citing perceived Christian origins and concerns that its steps resembled the sign of the cross, despite this Poco-Poco remains a cherished part of social gatherings and community events in various regions.[40] In Central Sulawesi, the Dero dance promotes community unity through its circular formations and synchronized steps, often accompanied by lively music and chants at local festivals. Meanwhile, in South Sulawesi, the graceful Pakarena dance captivates audiences with its intricate storytelling conveyed through elegant movements and traditional costumes, preserving Bugis cultural narratives. Additionally, the Paraga dance demonstrates impressive athleticism by blending acrobatic and martial arts-inspired movements, symbolizing cultural pride during festive occasions.
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