TARI BEDHAYA KETAWANG - TARIAN SAKRAL RAJA MATARAM | BINGKAI DESA

Summary

The Bedhaya Ketawang dance, a sacred and noble performance from Surakarta Palace in Java, is steeped in tradition and history. It is performed exclusively during royal coronations and ceremonies to honor the king's ascension. Originating from Sultan Agung's mystical experiences, the dance narrates the divine love affair between Kanjeng Ratu Kidul and Mataram kings. Nine dancers, symbolizing the nine cardinal directions, perform in traditional 'dodot ageng' attire to the rhythm of Gending Ketawang Gedhe, a pelog-toned gamelan music. The dance is believed to be graced by the presence of Kanjeng Ratu Kidul herself, making it a revered spectacle at the royal palace.

Takeaways

• 🎭 The Bedhaya Ketawang dance is a significant cultural performance from Surakarta Palace, Java, associated with the coronation of kings and commemoration of their ascension.
• 🌟 The name 'Bedhaya Ketawang' is derived from 'bedhaya', meaning female palace dancers, and 'ketawang', symbolizing the sky, high status, nobility, and glory.
• 🕉 The dance is considered sacred, involving divinity and the belief that it can only be performed with God's will.
• 📜 Historically, Sultan Agung Hanyakrakusumo, who ruled the Mataram Sultanate, was inspired by a mystical experience to create the Bedhaya Ketawang dance.
• 💃 The dance tells the story of the love affair between Kanjeng Ratu Kidul and the kings of Mataram, with movements and songs reflecting this romance.
• 👑 Public belief holds that Kanjeng Ratu Kidul, a mythical queen, attends performances as the tenth dancer, with nine other dancers representing the nine cardinal directions of 'Nawasanga'.
• 👗 Dancers must meet purity requirements, including being unmarried girls and fasting before the performance, to ensure the sanctity of the dance.
• 🎵 The music for Bedhaya Ketawang, Gending Ketawang Gedhe, is played in pelog tone and features instruments like 'kethuk', 'kenong', 'kendhang', 'gong', and 'kemak'.
• 🌐 The dance is divided into three scenes with changes in musical tone, starting and ending in 'laras pelog' and shifting to 'slendro' in between.
• 🎵 Accompaniment songs include 'Durma', 'Retnamulya', and 'Dalem Ageng Prabasuyasa', with additional instruments like 'fiddle', 'gender', 'gambang', and 'flute' for harmony.

Q & A

What is the Bedhaya Ketawang dance?

The Bedhaya Ketawang dance is a sacred and significant dance in Java, performed only during the coronation of the king and the 'Tingalandalem Jumenengan Sunan' ceremony at the Surakarta Palace, symbolizing nobility and glory.

What does the name 'Bedhaya Ketawang' signify?

The name 'Bedhaya Ketawang' is derived from 'bedhaya', meaning female dancers in the palace, and 'ketawang', which means sky, representing something high, nobility, and glory.

Why is the Bedhaya Ketawang dance considered sacred?

The Bedhaya Ketawang dance is considered sacred because it involves divinity and is believed that everything happens with the will of God Almighty.

Which historical figure is associated with the creation of the Bedhaya Ketawang dance?

Sultan Agung Hanyakrakusumo, who ruled the Mataram Sultanate from 1613 - 1645 AD, is credited with creating the Bedhaya Ketawang dance after experiencing a spiritual revelation during a 'samadi' ritual.

What is the significance of the nine dancers in the Bedhaya Ketawang performance?

The nine dancers in the Bedhaya Ketawang performance represent the nine cardinal directions called 'Nawasanga' in Javanese mythology.

What are the requirements for a dancer to perform the Bedhaya Ketawang dance?

The main requirements for a dancer to perform the Bedhaya Ketawang dance are that they must be a pure girl, not menstruating, and have a pure inner state, achieved by fasting for a few days leading up to the performance.

What is the traditional attire worn by Bedhaya Ketawang dancers?

The traditional attire worn by Bedhaya Ketawang dancers is 'dodot ageng' or 'basahan', which is similar to Javanese wedding attire and is predominantly green.

What type of music accompanies the Bedhaya Ketawang dance?

The music accompanying the Bedhaya Ketawang dance is called Gending Ketawang Gedhe, which has a pelog tone and is played using a variety of gamelan instruments.

How is the Bedhaya Ketawang dance divided in terms of scenes or chapters?

The Bedhaya Ketawang dance is divided into three scenes or chapters, with changes in the tuning of the gending to a 'slendro' tone twice, before returning to 'laras pelog'.

What is the role of Kanjeng Ratu Kidul in the Bedhaya Ketawang dance?

Kanjeng Ratu Kidul is believed to be the forerunner of the dance and is depicted in the dance's movements as having love affairs with the kings of Mataram. It is also believed that she attends the ceremony and dances as the tenth dancer.

What instruments are used in the gamelan to accompany the Bedhaya Ketawang dance?

The instruments used in the gamelan to accompany the Bedhaya Ketawang dance include 'kethuk, kenong, kendhang, gong, and kemak', which dominate the rhythm of the gending.

Outlines

00:00

👑 The Sacred Bedhaya Ketawang Dance

The Bedhaya Ketawang is a sacred and significant dance of Java, performed exclusively during the coronation of a king at Surakarta Palace. The name translates to 'female dancers of the sky,' symbolizing nobility and glory. Originating from Sultan Agung's mystical encounter with heavenly chanting, the dance is believed to involve divine will. It is associated with the legendary love affair between Kanjeng Ratu Kidul and Mataram kings, with movements and songs reflecting this romance. The dance is performed by nine dancers, with the public believing that Kanjeng Ratu Kidul joins as the tenth dancer. It is a formal and special performance, not for entertainment but for commemorating significant royal events.

05:11

🌟 The Rituals and Music of Bedhaya Ketawang

In Javanese mythology, the Bedhaya Ketawang dance represents the nine cardinal directions, 'Nawasanga'. The dancers must embody purity, being young, unmarried girls who fast to prepare for their roles. The sanctity of the performance is paramount, with the belief that Kanjeng Ratu Kidul will correct any dancer's mistakes. The dancers wear traditional 'dodot ageng' attire, akin to Javanese wedding dress, predominantly green. The music, Gending Ketawang Gedhe, uses a pelog tone and features instruments like 'kethuk,' 'kenong,' 'kendhang,' 'gong,' and 'kemak,' which drive the rhythm. The dance is structured into three scenes with shifts in musical tone, starting and ending with 'laras pelog' and incorporating 'slendro' in between. Additional instruments like 'fiddle,' 'gender,' 'gambang,' and 'flute' are introduced to enhance the harmony. The dance is a revered part of the King's inauguration at Surakarta Royal Palace.

Keywords

💡Bedhaya Ketawang

Bedhaya Ketawang is a sacred dance from the Surakarta Palace in Java, Indonesia. The term 'bedhaya' refers to female dancers in the palace, while 'ketawang' signifies the sky, implying high status, nobility, and glory. This dance is central to the video's theme, showcasing the cultural and spiritual significance of the performance. It is mentioned as being performed only during the coronation of the king and to commemorate the ascension to the throne, highlighting its exclusivity and importance in royal ceremonies.

💡Sultan Agung Hanyakrakusumo

Sultan Agung Hanyakrakusumo was the ruler of the Mataram Sultanate from 1613 to 1645 AD. His role in the creation of the Bedhaya Ketawang dance is pivotal to the video's narrative. The script describes how he was inspired by a mystical experience during a 'samadi' ritual, hearing chanting from the sky, which led him to create the dance. This historical figure is integral to understanding the origins and sacred nature of the dance.

💡Panembahan Senopati

Panembahan Senopati is another historical figure mentioned in the script, who is said to have had a romantic encounter with Ratu Kencanasari, also known as Kanjeng Ratu Kidul. This legend adds a layer of mystique and cultural depth to the Bedhaya Ketawang dance, as it is believed that this queen became the forerunner of the dance. The script uses this story to illustrate the dance's connection to Javanese mythology and royal lineage.

💡Giyanti Agreement

The Giyanti Agreement of 1755 is a historical event referenced in the script that led to the division of the Mataram Sultanate into the Surakarta Kingdom and the Yogyakarta Sultanate. This agreement is relevant to the video's theme as it sets the historical context for the Bedhaya Ketawang dance's association with the Surakarta Palace and its significance in the region's cultural heritage.

💡Kanjeng Ratu Kidul

Kanjeng Ratu Kidul, also known as the Queen in the Kingdom of the South Sea, is a mythical figure in Javanese folklore. The script describes her as having a love affair with the kings of Mataram, and her presence is believed to be felt during the performance of the Bedhaya Ketawang dance. She is said to attend the ceremony and dance as the tenth dancer, which adds a spiritual dimension to the performance and connects it to the broader mythology of the region.

💡Nawasanga

Nawasanga refers to the nine cardinal directions in Javanese mythology. The script mentions that the nine Bedhaya Ketawang dancers represent these directions, symbolizing the dance's connection to the spiritual and cosmic order. This concept is important for understanding the dance's deeper meaning and its role in connecting the earthly and divine realms.

💡Purity

Purity is a key requirement for the performers of the Bedhaya Ketawang dance, as mentioned in the script. Dancers must be pure girls who are not menstruating and must fast for several days before the performance to achieve inner purity. This emphasis on purity underscores the dance's sacred nature and the belief that it must be performed with the utmost respect and spiritual readiness.

💡Dodot Ageng

Dodot Ageng, also known as 'basahan', is the traditional attire worn by the Bedhaya Ketawang dancers, which resembles Javanese wedding attire and is predominantly green. The script highlights the significance of this dress in connecting the dance to the cultural practices of the Javanese people, particularly the celebration of marriage and the associated rituals.

💡Gending Ketawang Gedhe

Gending Ketawang Gedhe is the specific music that accompanies the Bedhaya Ketawang dance, characterized by a pelog tone. The script describes the use of various gamelan instruments to create this music, which sets the rhythm and mood for the dance. Understanding the musical components is crucial for appreciating the full sensory experience of the performance.

💡Gamelan

Gamelan is a traditional Indonesian musical ensemble that provides the accompaniment for the Bedhaya Ketawang dance. The script lists specific instruments such as 'kethuk, kenong, kendhang, gong, and kemak' that are used to create the gending. Gamelan is central to the video's theme as it represents the rich musical tradition of Java and its integral role in ceremonial dances.

💡Tembang

Tembang refers to the songs that accompany the Bedhaya Ketawang dance, as mentioned in the script. These songs are believed to express the romantic feelings of Kanjeng Ratu Kidul towards the king, adding a layer of emotional depth to the dance. The tembang is an essential element of the performance, connecting the dance to the narrative and emotional core of the story.

Highlights

Bedhaya Ketawang is a sacred dance performed during the coronation of the king at Surakarta Palace, symbolizing nobility and glory.

The name 'Bedhaya Ketawang' comes from 'bedhaya' meaning female palace dancers and 'ketawang' signifying the sky and high status.

The dance is sacred due to its connection with Divinity and the belief that everything happens with God's will.

Sultan Agung Hanyakrakusumo, who ruled from 1613-1645, created the dance after hearing chanting during a meditation ritual.

An alternate legend tells of Panembahan Senopati's romantic encounter with Ratu Kencanasari, who became the dance's forerunner.

After the Giyanti Agreement in 1755, the Mataram Sultanate's inheritance was divided between the Surakarta and Yogyakarta Sultanates.

Bedhaya Ketawang is exclusive to the Surakarta Palace and is still performed during royal ascension ceremonies.

The dance is not just for entertainment but is performed for special occasions in a formal atmosphere.

The dance movements depict the love affair between Kanjeng Ratu Kidul and the kings of Mataram.

Dancers embody Kanjeng Ratu Kidul's romantic expressions through hand movements and body language.

It is believed that Kanjeng Ratu Kidul attends and dances as the tenth dancer during the performance.

The dance is performed by nine dancers, representing the nine cardinal directions in Javanese mythology called 'Nawasanga'.

Dancers must be pure girls, not menstruating, and maintain purity through fasting before the performance.

The sanctity of the dancers is important as Kanjeng Ratu Kidul is said to possess those with incorrect movements.

Dancers wear 'dodot ageng' or 'basahan', similar to Javanese wedding attire, predominantly green in color.

The music for Bedhaya Ketawang is called Gending Ketawang Gedhe, featuring a pelog tone.

Five types of gamelan instruments are used: ketuk, kenong, kendhang, gong, and kemak, dominating the rhythm.

The dance is divided into three scenes with changes in musical tone from pelog to slendro and back to pelog.

Songs like 'Durma', 'Retnamulya', and 'Dalem Ageng Prabasuyasa' accompany the dance, with additional instruments for harmony.

Bedhaya Ketawang is a sacred dance integral to the King's inauguration at the Surakarta Royal Palace.

Transcripts

SURAKARTA PALACE, JAVA.

BEDHAYA DANCE KETAWANG

Greetings full of love, greetings from the village ...

Bedaya Ketawang dance is a dance of greatness,

only performed during the coronation of the king and "Tingalandalem Jumenengan Sunan" at the Surakarta Palace,

or it is called the ceremony to commemorate the ascension of the king.

The name "Bedhaya Ketawang",

comes from the word "bedhaya"

which means female dancers in the palace.

"ketawang" means sky,

synonymous with something high,

nobility and glory.

Bedhaya Ketawang dance is a sacred dance,

which is sacred because it involves Divinity,

because everything will not happen without the will of God Almighty.

According to the legend, once upon a time Sultan Agung Hanyakrakusumo,

who ruled the Mataram Sultanate from 1613 - 1645 AD,

was performing a "samadi" or ascetic ritual.

in silence the king heard the sound of chanting (humming)

from the sky or "tawang"

Sultan Agung felt fascinated by the chanting,

finished meditating,

Sultan Agung called four of his guards

and revealed his inner testimony to them.

Inspired by the occult experiences he had experienced,

Sultan Agung himself created a dance,

which was later named "Bedhaya Ketawang".

There is also a legend in another version, it is

also told that in his hermitage,

"Panembahan Senopati" met and made love

with Ratu Kencanasari,

or also known as Kanjeng Ratu Kidul (Queen in the Kingdom of the South Sea)

who later became the forerunner of this dance.

After the Giyanti Agreement in 1755,

Raja Pakubuwana III and Raja Hamengkubuwana I

distributed the inheritance of the Mataram Sultanate

which partially belonged to the Surakarta Kingdom,

and the other part belonged to the Yogyakarta Sultanate.

Bedhaya Ketawang dance belongs to the Surakarta palace

and in its development until now the

Bedhaya Ketawang Dance is still performed at the coronation

and the ceremony to commemorate the ascension to the throne of Sunan / King at the Surakarta Palace.

Bedhaya Ketawang is a dance that functions not only as entertainment,

because this dance is only danced for something special,

and in a very formal atmosphere.

The Bedhaya Ketawang dance movement depicts the love affair of

Kanjeng Ratu Kidul with the kings of Mataram.

Everything is manifested in the movements of the hands,

as well as all parts of the body, the

way of holding the "sondher" and so on.

All the words listed in the tembang (song) that accompany the dance,

show a picture of Kanjeng Ratu Kidul's outpouring of romance to the king.

According to public belief,

every time this Bedhaya Ketawang dance is performed,

it is believed that Kanjeng Ratu Kidul will attend the ceremony

and dance as the tenth dancer.

This Bedhaya Ketawang dance is performed by nine dancers.

In Javanese mythology, nine Bedhaya Ketawang dancers describe the nine cardinal

directions called "Nawasanga".

As a sacred dance,

there are several conditions that the dancer must have.

The main requirement is that the dancer must be a pure girl

and not menstruating.

The next requirement is to be pure inwardly.

This is done by fasting for a few days leading up to the performance.

The sanctity of the dancers is really considered

because it is said that Kanjeng Ratu Kidul will come over to the dancers

whose movements are still wrong during the practice.

The clothing worn by Bedhaya Ketawang dancers is "dodot ageng",

or also known as "basahan",

which is usually worn by Javanese brides.

The dress of the Bedhaya Ketawang dancer is very similar to Javanese wedding attire

and is dominated by green.

Gending or music used to accompany Bedhaya Ketawang is

called Gending Ketawang Gedhe which has a pelog tone.

There are five types of gamelan instruments used to present this piece,

namely "kethuk, kenong, kendhang, gong, and kemak"

which really dominate the whole rhythm of the gending.

Bedhaya Ketawang is divided into three scenes (chapters).

In the middle of the dance, the tuning (tone) of the gending changes to a "slendro" tone

for two times,

then the tone of the gending returns to "laras pelog" until the dance ends.

In the first part, the dance is accompanied by the song "Durma",

then changes to "Retnamulya".

When accompanying the dancer's path, they return to "Dalem Ageng Prabasuyasa",

the gamelan instrument being played is added with "fiddle", "gender", "gambang", and "flute".

This is all done to add harmony to the atmosphere.

That's a little knowledge that we can share,

about a very sacred dance, namely the Bedhaya Ketawang dance,

which is always performed at the King's inauguration

at the Surakarta Royal Palace.

Thank you, Greetings full of love, greetings from the village.