Kuda Lumping traditional dance (also known as kuda kepang, jaranan, Jathilan or flat horses) is one of the traditional dances from Indonesia,featuring dancers performing on wooden or bamboo-woven horse properties.
Due to multiple versions and historical backgrounds, it is still unknown how the dance originated.
Some believe that kuda lumping emerged as support from marginalized people for Pangeran Diponegoro during the war against Dutch colonialism.
However, others claim that the tradition originated from the struggle of Sunan Kalijaga—one of the members of wali songo, or nine Islamic saints who spread Islamic teachings in Java--and Raden Patah during the fight against Dutch imperialism and dominance.
The performance also features traditional instruments such as angklung, dog-dog drum, and gongs.
Here are three interesting facts about kuda lumping traditional dance that may be less known to others.
Kuda Lumping Has Numerous Names
Kuda Lumping folk art comes from Java island, mainly Central Java, East Java, and Yogyakarta.
However, the tradition has multiple names given that it is considered a local wisdom in some regions.
For example, jathilan is called Kuda Lumping in West Java, Jaranan Butho in East Java’s Banyuwangi, and Jaranan Turonggo Yakso in Trenggalek.
In Bali, jathilan is known as Jaranan Sang Hyang; in Yogyakarta, it is called Jathilan Hamengkubuwono.
UNESCO Has Not Recognized It As An Intangible Cultural Heritage
Intangible cultural heritage refers to folklore, tradition, art, physical expressions, customs, and values representing a community’s cultural identity.
According to Indonesia’s Intangible Cultural Heritage website, there are at least 19 types of kuda lumping dances with various names.
Three of these—Jaran Kecak (Lumajang), Jaran Bodhag (Probolinggo), and Jathilan (Yogyakarta)—have been registered as Indonesia’s intangible cultural properties.
However, UNESCO has not recognized kuda lumping as Indonesia’s intangible cultural heritage. Several requirements must be met, such as academic papers with thorough and valid information and other records as proof.
Trance Attraction That Reflects a Human’s Character
Kuda lumping has mystical elements, as dancers are in a trance during the performance, and spirits inhabit their bodies.
The mystical elements describe a human character in general. During the normal stance, dancers dance gracefully and beautifully.
However, when spirits enter their bodies, they act uncontrollably such as eating hot coals and glass.
Kuda Lumping tradition also describes the supernatural realm as real, as shown by dancers. The trance attraction draws both admiration and horror from spectators.
Four to six or eight dancers perform jathilan on several occasions, from weddings to other celebrations.
