For the first time, the national version of the Sendratari Ramayana dance drama was presented on the open stage of Prambanan Temple, Yogyakarta. The festival, which lasted from Oct. 12 to 15, featured a performance of the entire Hindu epic the Ramayana with eight contingents from various regions in Indonesia.

The performance began with the Yogyakarta contingent telling the story of “Sang Gendawa Denta”, depicting a competition to win the hand of the princess of Mantili, Dewi Sinta.

It was followed by the “Loss of Dewi Sinta”, performed by Batak dancers from North Sumatra. On the second day, a South Kalimantan troupe presented “Moksha of Subali”, followed by “Hanuman’s Emissary” by the Central Java group.

The third day saw the Jakarta dance company present “Rama Bridging the Ocean”, in which Rama and his simian troops build a bridge to the Alengka kingdom to attack Rahwana. The sequel to this episode, “Anggodo’s Emissary”, was performed by a group from East Java.

All women: The West Java contingent performs “Kumbokarno Gugur” (Kumbakarna perishes).The last day presented three episodes of the Ramayana, with a West Java ensemble performing “Kumbakarna Perishes”, a Bali contingent performing “Rahwana Perishes”, and the host troupe, Yayasan Roro Jonggrang, concluding with a performance of “Sacred Fire”, where Dewi Sinta was immolated to prove her fidelity.

The Ramayana Festival was enchanting. In spite of presenting a familiar storyline, the troupes all offered interpretations filtered through their diverse regional traditions and cultures, along with unique dance steps, costumes and musical accompaniment.

From Batak with love: Dancers from North Sumatra perform “The Loss of Dewi Sinta”.

Diversity: Balinese dancers stage “Rahwana Gugur” (Rahwana Perishes).

Togetherness: The Jakarta dance company performs “Rama Tambak” (Rama Bridging the Ocean), in which Rama and his simian troops build a bridge to the Alengka kingdom to attack Rahwana.

The fighting messenger: The East Java contingent performs “Anggodo Duto” (Aggodo’s emissary).

— Photos JP/Tarko Sudiarno