PPI Hungary Enthralls Indonesian Days with Saman Dance

TIMESINDONESIA, JAKARTA – The Indonesian Days event, organized by the Indonesian Embassy (KBRI) in Budapest from June 17-18, 2023, at the enchanting Vajdahunyad Vara Castle, Budapest, Hungary, unfolded as an exceptional cultural fiesta. Among the event's highlights, the Indonesian Student Association, known as Perhimpunan Pelajar Indonesia or PPI Hungary, took center stage, dazzling the audience with their mesmerizing regional dances.

Regional dances in Indonesia are a testament to the nation's rich cultural tapestry. Each dance encapsulates unique stories, meanings, and intricate movements that blend grace with symbolism. During the Indonesian Days celebration, PPI Hungary chose to showcase two profoundly distinct regional dances, both of which left the spectators spellbound.

Advertisement

One of their featured performances was the Saman Dance, hailing from the Nangroe Aceh Darussalam region in western Indonesia. The Saman Dance is renowned for its lightning-fast, precisely synchronized movements. Dancers sit closely together, executing intricate hand and body gestures at a rapid pace in perfect harmony with the accompanying music.

Beyond demanding exceptional individual skills, the Saman Dance requires impeccable coordination and unity among the performers. When PPI Hungary graced the stage with the Saman Dance, the audience was instantly captivated by the dancers' precision and the seamless harmony of their movements. Despite the formidable challenge posed by the rapid and precise choreography, PPI Hungary delivered a truly awe-inspiring performance.

Filled with more Indonesian Culture

In addition to the Saman Dance, the Indonesian Days festival featured an eclectic array of performances, including a captivating Gamelan music ensemble performed by Hungarian enthusiasts. Traditional dances like the Merak Dance, Rumpak Jurami Dance, Topeng Kelana (Masked Wanderer), and Maumere Dance further enriched the cultural showcase. The event also featured live cooking demonstrations, engaging coffee panel discussions, and spirited group poco-poco dance sessions that brought the audience into the lively spirit of Indonesian culture.

The event drew distinguished attendees, including Deputy Governor of Bank Indonesia, Doni Primanto Joewono, who emphasized the pivotal role of supporting Indonesian Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) on the global stage. Bank Indonesia extended its support by bringing a selection of exemplary MSME products and entrepreneurs directly from Indonesia to feature at the event. Doni expressed hope that Indonesian Days would serve as a catalyst for enhancing the global competitiveness of Indonesian MSME products.

Indonesian Days garnered commendations from several friendly nations, with ambassadors from the Netherlands and Thailand among the distinguished guests. The event cast its spell not only on the local populace of Budapest but also attracted international students and members of the Indonesian diaspora residing in the Hungarian capital. The opening ceremony featured a captivating display of traditional costumes representing various Indonesian regions, including Bali, Central Java, West Sumatra, South Sumatra, as well as the exotic Garuda and Merak ensembles.

Introducing Indonesian Culture to Hungary

Marhadi, the Chairman of PPI Hungary, expressed that PPI Hungary felt a profound responsibility to introduce Indonesia to the Hungarian community. "We view Indonesian Days as the perfect opportunity to share the beauty of Indonesian culture. PPIH consistently lends its unwavering support to every event organized by KBRI and Indonesian students in Hungary." Marhadi, a doctoral student at MATE, underscored the importance of cultural exchange in transcending geographical boundaries remarked.

PPI Hungary's performance at Indonesian Days transcended being merely a cultural presentation; it became a source of inspiration. Their vibrant showcase illuminated how, despite being far from their homeland, they ardently preserve and celebrate Indonesian culture. It was a resounding testament that the love for culture and identity knows no bounds.

Beyond their captivating dance performances, PPI Hungary is a proactive force in various aspects of Indonesian students' lives in Hungary. They have forged a strong, supportive community that transcends academic rigors. Despite their demanding academic schedules, they consistently engage in events like Indonesian Days, wholeheartedly endeavoring to introduce Indonesia to the Hungarian community and the world.

Indonesian Days in Budapest epitomizes the universal appeal of Indonesian culture. PPI Hungary's performances serve as a powerful example of how art and culture can transcend borders, fostering deeper understanding and a heightened appreciation of cultural diversity.

**) Ikuti berita terbaru TIMES Indonesia di Google News klik link ini dan jangan lupa di follow.