By Universitas Budi Luhur
Muhammad Ady Nugraha
Java Dwipa Nusantara: 1500 years of Java (2023-06-05/2023-06-05) by Bintarto WicaksonoUniversitas Budi Luhur
Java Dwipa Nusantara is a captivating theatrical dance that delves into the rich tapestry of Javanese legends, mythologies, and histories spanning 1500 years, from the 5th century to the 20th century.
Age of Fire
The narrative commences in the Age of Fire, during the 5th century Tarumanagara Kingdom in West Java. This era witnesses the birth of Nyi Roro Tarumi, daughter of King Purnawarman. Nyi Roro Tarumi, destined to rule the Southern Ocean in present-day Yogyakarta.
Despite being defeated, Nyi Roro Tarumi is spared and appointed as one of Kanjeng Ratu Kidul's aides, assuming the name Nyi Roro Kidul. Her legendary status in Javanese culture becomes etched in the annals of time.
Java Dwipa Nusantara: 1500 years of Java (2023-06-05/2023-06-05) by Bintarto WicaksonoUniversitas Budi Luhur
Age of Brahmanan
The tale then transitions to the 9th century, known as the Age of Brahmanan or Brahmin, during the pinnacle of the Hindu-Buddha civilization in Java. Here, the renowned love story unfolds between Roro Jonggrang and Rakai Daksa, also known as Bandung Bondowoso.
Their romance faces the disapproval of Roro Jonggrang's parents, leading to her seclusion in the Sorohjiwan Monastery in Prambanan, where she assumes the title of Candra Kirana.
Calon Arang
In the fifth act, the legend of Calon Arang takes center stage. Calon Arang, a witch, casts a curse in 11th century East Java, resulting in a devastating epidemic. The disease proves so lethal that victims could succumb within hours.
Java Dwipa Nusantara: 1500 years of Java (2023-06-05/2023-06-05) by Bintarto WicaksonoUniversitas Budi Luhur
Pajang Sultanate
Moving to the 15th century in Central Java, during the reign of the Pajang Sultanate and the widespread influence of Islam, the seventh and eighth acts explore a turbulent civil war that ensues after the fall of the Kingdom of Demak.
Java Dwipa Nusantara: 1500 years of Java (2023-06-05/2023-06-05) by Bintarto WicaksonoUniversitas Budi Luhur
Mataram Sultanate
The ninth act showcases the establishment of the formidable Mataram Sultanate. This pivotal moment involves a supernatural alliance between Panembahan Senopati and Ratu Kidul, the mythical ruler of the Southern Ocean.
Finally, the theatrical dance catapults into the 20th century, depicting Indonesia's declaration of independence. This significant event is represented by farmers and fishermen, symbolizing the nation's resilient backbone.
Java Dwipa Nusantara: 1500 years of Java (2023-06-05/2023-06-05) by Bintarto WicaksonoUniversitas Budi Luhur
Through Java Dwipa Nusantara, audiences embark on a captivating journey through Java's captivating past, immersing themselves in the legends, myths, and historical events that have shaped the island's cultural heritage for 1500 years.
Article : Muhammad Ady Nugeraha
Photo : Bintarto Wicaksono
You are all set!
Your first Culture Weekly will arrive this week.