Monday, October 4, 2025, Students from the Faculty of Cultural Sciences (FIB) at Gadjah Mada University (UGM) successfully held the Pentas Ambal Warsa (PAW) to commemorate the 57th anniversary of the UKM Swagayugama. The event took place at the Pendopo Gelanggang Inovasi dan Kreatifitas (GIK) UGM, showcasing the rich heritage of Indonesian culture.
Abimanyu Mahendra Maladeta Darmadi, known as Abi, a 2023 student from the Study Program of Javanese Language, Literature, and Culture, serves as the chairman of UKM Swagayugama. Under his leadership, the event was a great success, attracting an enthusiastic audience eager to witness traditional performances.
The evening began with a captivating performance of the Uyon-Uyon dance, bringing a joyful atmosphere and highlighting the importance of cultural heritage. Following the dance, the audience was treated to a Wayang Wong performance featuring the Suprabawati story. This traditional Javanese theatrical art, which combines dance and drama, mesmerized the audience with its compelling storyline and magnificent costumes, demonstrating the depth of Javanese culture.
In addition to the Wayang Wong, there was also a Wayang Kulit performance depicting the story of Sri Suwela. This shadow puppet show is a vital part of Indonesia’s cultural heritage, with skilled puppeteers bringing the characters to life and impressing the audience with their artistry and storytelling ability.
Before the Wayang Kulit performance began, there was an appreciation session honoring the composers, trainers, and directors who contributed to the success of Pentas Ambal Warsa. Their dedication and hard work were recognized, emphasizing the collaborative effort behind the event.
The event also included a documentation session where the committee members gathered for photographs, capturing memories of this significant occasion. This moment not only celebrated UKM Swagayugama’s achievements but also reinforced the importance of preserving and promoting cultural heritage among the younger generation.
The Wayang Kulit performance concluded the event magnificently, leaving the audience mesmerized by a tradition passed down through generations. The successful execution of Pentas Ambal Warsa served as a reminder of the vital role that cultural heritage plays in shaping identity and community.
This event was not only a celebration of UKM Swagayugama’s anniversary but also a testament to the commitment of FIB students to safeguard and promote Indonesia’s cultural heritage. It highlights the importance of cultural events in fostering appreciation and understanding of traditional arts among youth.
[Public Relation FIB UGM, Muhammad Hafidz Haikal Amirza]
