The sound of this bamboo music was originally meant to boost the spirit of people engaged in collective work, but in its developments it became a music accompaniment to religious ceremonies, wedding parties and official state functions.         

In its current iteration, Jegog music also serves to accompany such friendship dances as Lengger in Banyumas and Tayuban in Central and East Java.

Jegog art performances have become an arena for those who have the courage to dance in public, and sometimes a field for carefree men to do what the Javanese call nyawer (slipping some money on the chest of a female dancer).       

And indeed in reality, pretty and bold dancers with erotic movements will definitely attract a lot more male onlookers to dig their hands into their pockets and slip them tips.

Attractive: Jegog dancers are believed to have the charisma to attract people to dance.

— Photos by Tarko Sudiarno

Popular

Indonesian hotel chain confirms exit from Cuba

Health Ministry to push regulation on tobacco plain packaging

Corruption scandals, rupiah fall revive reshuffle talks