The Elegance of the Henna Dance Enlivens the Peak Night of the Fire Umbrella Festival
West Tanjung Jabung Regency, Jambi Province, Indonesia – The 2024 Fire Umbrella Festival reached its peak on Saturday (10/8) with a stunning performance of the Inai Dance. This tradition, an important part of the Malay traditional wedding ceremonies in the West Tanjung Jabung area, closed the festival with splendor and confirmed the activation of Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH).
The performance captivated the audience with its unique properties, including the iconic Fire Umbrella, which had previously been abandoned but has now been revived. Local artists and cultural figures enthusiastically embraced the festival, celebrating the richness of their local culture through various competitions and art performances.
Significance of the Fire Umbrella Festival
The Fire Umbrella Festival serves as a platform for the community to express their cultural heritage. Siswanto, the Main Cultural Expert of the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research and Technology, emphasized the importance of preserving and promoting traditions for future generations.
Revival of a Cultural Treasure
Ade Sulaiman, Director of the Umbrella Festival, highlighted the significance of the Inai Dance Night tradition, noting its rich performing arts elements. The revival of this unique tradition symbolizes the flourishing cultural ecosystem along the Batanghari River Basin.
Community Involvement and Enthusiasm
The holding of the festival was met with overwhelming enthusiasm from the local community. Artists and cultural figures expressed their appreciation for the opportunity to celebrate their heritage and contribute to the vibrant cultural landscape of the region.