Kecak Workshop: Balinese Dance Composition inspired by "the burning of Lanka" from the Ramayana epic

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On 05 July 2024, the Vivekananda International Foundation (VIF) along with the Indonesian Embassy organised the Kecak Workshop to commemorate 75 years of strong and enduring relationship between India and Indonesia. The bilateral relations have shown progress across various sectors like politics, economy, defence, and culture. As part of these celebrations, the VIF organised Kecak Workshop. Dr Arvind Gupta, Director VIF, delivered the opening remarks. The workshop was led by Prof. I Wayan Dibia, a distinguished Balinese artist, scholar, and choreographer renowned for his significant contributions to the preservation and innovation of Balinese performing arts. He has choreographed numerous dances and dramas, and his innovative works have been featured in prominent events and art festivals both in Indonesia and internationally. He has authored several books and articles on Balinese performing arts and has received prestigious accolades, including the Padma Shri Award in 2021.

During the workshop, Prof. Dibia provided an in-depth explanation of Kecak, which was followed by a performance by the GEOKS Dance Troupe demonstrating this unique art form. Kecak (pronounced "ke-chak"), also known as tari kecak (Kecak Dance) in Indonesian, is a form of Balinese Hindu dance and music drama developed in the 1930s. Traditionally performed in temples and villages across Bali, this dance is also referred to as the Ramayana monkey chant. It depicts a battle scene from the Ramayana, where the monkey-like Vanaras, led by Hanuman, assist Prince Rama in his fight against the evil King Ravana.

The celebration of 75 years of India-Indonesia diplomatic relations provided a valuable opportunity to strengthen the bond between the two nations and lay a stronger foundation for future cooperation. Beyond political and economic ties, the event aimed to build soft power bridges through cultural exchange programs, fostering meaningful people-to-people connections. By highlighting the importance of cultural exchange, the workshop underscored the significance of such initiatives in enhancing mutual understanding and collaboration between India and Indonesia.