Indonesian Dance Elements in Rabindranritya: A Cross-Cultural Discourse

Paper Abstract: Rabindranritya, a dance style developed by the legendary poet Rabindranath Tagore, has long been recognised for its distinctive expressions and movements. Between July and September 1927, Tagore visited Indonesia and some of his letters reveal his travel itinerary to us. He was so fascinated by the unique flowy movements and some distinct features of Indonesian dance forms there that we can notice some huge influence later in Rabindranritya. The costumes of Rabindranritya show an Indonesian touch because Rabindranath started making "Batik" after visiting Indonesia. However, some differences have been seen between Indian Batik and Indonesian Batik, but this material has become an identity of Rabindranritya costume. Indonesian influence can also be seen in the Rabindranritya dance steps and stage decoration and the dance drama, which is a dance style started by Rabindranath Tagore after experiencing Indonesian dance forms in India for the first time. That's why he later, sent his one disciple, Santidev Ghosh, to Indonesia to learn properly the Indonesian dance forms. This study provides an overview of a study exploring the infusion of Indonesian dance elements into Rabindranritya, as a manifestation of cross-cultural exchange and artistic fusion. This study delves into the historical, social and artistic contexts surrounding the incorporation of Indonesian dance components into Rabindranritya, examining how these elements have influenced and enriched the traditional dance form. The study employs a multidisciplinary approach, drawing from dance studies, cultural anthropology and performance theory to analyse the artistic and symbolic aspects of Indonesian influence on Rabindranritya.