Photo: The Luwih Arja Luh dance-drama performance entitled “Ranu–Saraswati–Rasmi” at the Nretya Mandala Open Stage, ISI Bali, Saturday (4/4).
In interpreting Kalangan Widya Mahardika V (Academic Arts Week) under the theme Kirtya–Jnana–Kawya, which signifies “the exaltation of noble knowledge,” the Indonesian Institute of the Arts Bali (ISI Bali) presented the Luwih Arja Luh dance-drama performance entitled “Ranu–Saraswati–Rasmi” at the Nretya Mandala Open Stage, ISI Bali, on Saturday (4/4), coinciding with the sacred day of Saraswati (Saniscara Kliwon Wuku Watugunung). The performance marked one of the culminating highlights in the series of Kalangan Widya Mahardika events, which from the outset featured a diverse range of artistic and cultural activities within the ISI Bali campus.
The Rector of ISI Bali, Prof. Dr. Wayan “Kun” Adnyana, stated that the performance carries a particular significance, as reflected in the title “Luwih Arja Luh,” which emphasizes the role of women in the performing arts. “This performance is especially remarkable as all performers are women, ranging from faculty members and administrative staff to students of ISI Bali. They are women who are not only resilient, but also captivating, graceful, and charismatic on stage, inspiring us all,” he remarked.
Photo: The Luwih Arja Luh dance-drama performance entitled “Ranu–Saraswati–Rasmi” at the Nretya Mandala Open Stage, ISI Bali, Saturday (4/4).
He also conveyed his appreciation and gratitude to all parties involved in the Kalangan Widya Mahardika V series, from its opening to the performance on that day. “I would like to express my sincere appreciation for the participation of all elements involved throughout the Kalangan Widya Mahardika series, from its inauguration to today’s performance. The spirit of togetherness and creativity demonstrated has become a vital strength for ISI Bali in upholding and honoring knowledge, arts, and culture,” he added.
As part of reinforcing the sacred dimension of the performance, the sasolahan Napak Pertiwi Palawatan Suci Pura Padma Nareswara ISI Bali was also presented. This performance symbolized reverence for spiritual values and local wisdom, while representing the harmonious relationship between humans, nature, and Ida Sang Hyang Widhi Wasa.
Photo: Sasolahan Napak Pertiwi Palawatan Suci Pura Padma Nareswara ISI Bali at the Nretya Mandala Open Stage, ISI Bali, Saturday (4/4).
Prior to the dance-drama performance, ISI Bali held a series of ritual ceremonies in the morning, including Mecaru, Mlaspas, Pasupati, and Mapadagingan. These ceremonies were conducted as part of the purification and consecration process for several newly constructed and renovated buildings within the ISI Bali campus. (ISIBALI/Public Relations)
