UNS — Universitas Sebelas Maret (UNS) Surakarta reaffirmed its commitment to preserving national culture by staging a traditional shadow puppet performance titled Pandhawa Mranata Bawana. This event took place on Friday evening (9/5/2024) at Pendapa R. Ng. Yasadipura, UNS Javanology Institute. It marked the university’s 49th Dies Natalis celebration. The official Universitas Sebelas Maret YouTube channel livestreamed the event, allowing a wider audience to participate.
Cultural Performances Reflect UNS’s Commitment to Tradition
The performance began with Bedhaya Sebelas Maret dance, a signature dance of UNS created in 2016. Eleven dancers from the UNS Coordination Board of Traditional Culture (UKM BKKT UNS) performed this piece. A specially composed gending (traditional Javanese music) accompanied the performance. The music reflected gratitude and the spirit of cultural preservation within the UNS community. Sekar Rinonce, a karawitan ensemble from the UNS Dharma Wanita Persatuan (DWP), further enriched the event with a musical performance.
Rector’s Speech Highlights the Role of Culture in UNS’s Mission
UNS Rector, Prof. Dr. Hartono, dr., M.Si., emphasized that this event serves as a platform to preserve and develop the university’s vision. He highlighted the importance of promoting national cultural values, especially those rooted in Javanese tradition. He stated, “UNS not only advances science and technology but also embraces the arts, which are vital in shaping the nation’s character.”
He further highlighted that the Pandhawa Mranata Bawana performance reminds attendees of the noble values embedded in shadow puppet plays. “The story teaches us patience, perseverance, and responsibility in pursuing noble goals for the greater good of humanity. I hope UNS continues to contribute as an agent of change and cultural preservation,” Prof. Hartono added.
City Government Applauds UNS’s Cultural Preservation Efforts
Mayor Respati Achmad Ardianto, speaking on behalf of the Surakarta City Government, expressed appreciation for UNS’s initiative in preserving Javanese culture. “Wayang is a cultural heritage that imparts life philosophy, wisdom, and national identity. I highly appreciate UNS’s commitment. It aligns with Surakarta’s vision as a Cultural City. It also supports its status as part of the UNESCO Creative Cities Network in the field of folk art and craft,” the Mayor remarked.
He continued, “On its 49th Dies Natalis, I hope UNS continues to play a significant role as an agent of change and a guardian of our cultural values. Let us strengthen collaboration among the government, academia, and the community. Together, we can advance Solo as a city that is cultured, competitive, and has a strong identity.”
Pandhawa Mranata Bawana: A Moral Story for the Ages
The shadow puppet performance Pandhawa Mranata Bawana tells the tale of the Pandhawa brothers’ struggle against King Jarasanda’s greed. Jarasanda planned to sacrifice 100 kings to the deity Kalaludra. Disguised as Brahmins, the Pandhawa brothers thwarted his evil plans, freed the captive kings, and restored peace to the world.
The story imparts important moral lessons about patience, hard work, and unwavering commitment to realizing noble ideals that benefit humanity.
A Lasting Impression on the Audience
The event ran smoothly into the night, leaving a lasting impression on both the in-person audience and those who tuned in online. The combination of cultural performances and the shadow puppet show showcased UNS’s dedication. It successfully preserved and promoted Indonesian cultural heritage. HUMAS UNS
