UNESCO Recognizes Reog Ponorogo as Intangible Cultural Heritage in Need of Urgent Safeguarding
Reog Ponorogo, a vibrant traditional art form from the heart of Java, has earned a prestigious international recognition. UNESCO has officially designated Reog Ponorogo as an Intangible Cultural Heritage in Need of Urgent Safeguarding. This decision underscores the importance of preserving this unique cultural treasure for future generations.
The significance of this recognition was highlighted by Mohamad Oemar, the Indonesian Ambassador/Permanent Delegate to UNESCO, who served as the Chairperson of the Indonesian Delegation at the UNESCO ICH Committee Session 19. He expressed gratitude and appreciation for the UNESCO Committee and all who contributed to securing this crucial designation. He said, “This recognition not only highlights the importance of the art of Reog but also confirms the commitment to preserve Indonesia’s cultural identity for future generations.”
This designation comes after a thorough review process culminating at the 19th Session of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Protection of Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH), which convened in Asunción, Paraguay. During the session, experts recognized the vulnerability of this treasured tradition, emphasizing the need for immediate efforts to protect and preserve this unique cultural heritage.
Delving into the History and Significance of Reog Ponorogo
Reog Ponorogo is much more than just a performance; it’s a living testament to Indonesian culture. This captivating art form weaves together music, dance, and theatre, captivating audiences with its mesmerizing blend of art, history, and storytelling.
The heart of Reog Ponorogo lies in its iconic large masks, each one representing characters from Javanese mythology and folklore. These masks tell stories entrusted through generations, now recognized as in need of urgent safeguarding to ensure its continuity.
A Pivotal Tale:
Reog Ponorogo’s origins are steeped in legend, believed to date back to the era of the Kediri Kingdom around the 9th century AD. The story centers on King Singo Barong, a powerful and formidable creature.
According to folklore, the Bantarangin Kingdom, reigning in the area then known as Wengker, was led by a wise and just king, Prabu Klana Sewandono. Renowned for his intelligence and strength was King Prabu Klana Sewandono who, after dreaming of the beautiful Princess Songgolangit, embarked on a quest to win her hand in marriage.
Familiarity with the Reog Ponorogo
Princess Songgolangit, however, presented a unique challenge. She agreed to marry the King only under one condition – подвергнуться
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What are some of the main obstacles preventing younger generations from engaging with and continuing the tradition of Reog Ponorogo?
## UNESCO Recognition: A Lifeline for Reog Ponorogo
**Interviewer**: Joining us today is Alex Reed, a renowned expert on Indonesian traditional arts. Welcome to the show.
**Alex Reed**: Thank you for having me.
**Interviewer**: The world of culture celebrates today as UNESCO has designated Reog Ponorogo as an Intangible Cultural Heritage in Need of Urgent Safeguarding. What does this recognition mean for this unique art form?
**Alex Reed**: This is a monumental achievement for Reog Ponorogo and Indonesia as a whole. UNESCO’s recognition acknowledges the global significance of this vibrant tradition and emphasizes the need for immediate action to protect it for future generations.
**Interviewer**: Can you shed light on what makes Reog Ponorogo so special and worthy of such recognition?
**Alex Reed**: Reog Ponorogo is more than just a performance; it’s a living embodiment of Javanese history, mythology, and storytelling [[1](https://ich.unesco.org/en/USL/reog-ponorogo-performing-art-01969)]. Imagine a captivating blend of music, dance, and theater, all centered around these incredible large masks representing characters from Javanese folklore.
**Interviewer**: We understand this recognition comes with a call for ’urgent safeguarding.’ What are the threats facing Reog Ponorogo today?
**Alex Reed**: Like many traditional art forms, Reog Ponorogo faces challenges in retaining its practitioners, especially among younger generations. Globalization and modernization also pose a threat to traditional practices. UNESCO’s designation highlights the urgency to address these issues and implement measures to ensure the continuation of this valuable cultural heritage.
**Interviewer**: What steps are being taken to safeguard Reog Ponorogo?
**Alex Reed**: The Indonesian government, cultural institutions, and communities are working together to revitalize and promote Reog Ponorogo. This includes educational initiatives, workshops, and performances aimed at transmitting the knowledge and skills to younger generations.
**Interviewer**: This UNESCO recognition is undoubtedly a significant milestone. What message does it send to the world about the importance of preserving cultural heritage?
**Alex Reed**: It serves as a powerful reminder that cultural heritage is not just about the past; it’s about our present and future. Protecting traditional art forms like Reog Ponorogo ensures the richness and diversity of human expression continue to thrive for generations to come.
**Interviewer**: Thank you for sharing your insights with us today. We hope this recognition will inspire continued efforts to safeguard this remarkable cultural treasure.
**Alex Reed**: Thank you for having me.
