Kemindu Mask Dance, Traces of Acculturation of Javanese Dance in Kutai Kartanegara

Helloindonesia.id – As a traditional archipelago aristocracy system that has survived for nearly eight centuries, the Kutai Sultanate has a very rich cultural heritage, for example in the field of dance. Within the Kutai Palace, there are a number of classical dances that have survived through the ages. One of them is the kemindu mask dance. This dance is often referred to as the Kutai mask dance to distinguish it from various types of traditional dances that exist in various other regions in Indonesia.

In the past, the kemindu mask dance only developed in a limited circle. This dance can only be performed by people from certain social strata, namely young women from aristocratic circles in the Kutai Sultanate. Over time, this dance was allowed to be performed by people outside the palace environment. This change occurred during the reign of Sultan Haji Aji Muhammad Salehuddin II with the aim of popularizing and preserving the traditional arts of the Kutai Kartanegara Ing Martadipura Palace.

In terms of choreography, arrangements, and dance genres, the kemindu mask dance still has a close relationship with the mask dance that has developed in Java, especially Central Java and East Java. This happened because of the strong influence of the Majapahit heritage. Mask dance is one proof of the legacy of the diplomatic relations that occurred between the Kutai Kartanegara Sultanate during the reign of the Maharaja Sultan (1370-1420 AD) and the Majapahit rulers who were his contemporaries. Traces of the influence of Majapahit can also be found in the similarity of the storyline, clothing, and the character of the masks worn by the dancers.

Kemindu mask dance is usually performed at major Sultanate events and official events. These events include the ritual for homecoming, the Erau Festival, the coronation of the sultan, wedding receptions, and birth celebrations among noble families. This dance is also part of the protocol for welcoming the guest of honor in the Kutai Kartanegara Sultanate. [Ardee / IndonesiaKaya]