The Religiosity of the Banyumasan Lengger Dance: Tradition, Transformation, and Contemporary Practices

Lengger Banyumasan dance is a traditional performing art that has been practiced in the Banyumas region, Central Java, for centuries. This dance is known for its distinctive style characterized by graceful and sensual movements of female dancers called "Lengger". Originating from the pre-Islamic era, this dance was originally closely related to the spiritual and religious beliefs of the Banyumas people. This study aims to explore the religious and traditional aspects of the Lengger Banyumasan dance, as well as the transformations that have occurred in its form and function over time. The method used in this study is a qualitative approach with a focus on analyzing the religious and traditional aspects of the Lengger Banyumasan dance. This study involved a literature review covering a variety of academic sources, reports, and cultural resources to gain a comprehensive understanding of the historical, cultural, and religious context of the Lengger dance. The results of this study indicate that the Lengger Banyumasan dance has strong roots in the religious and cultural traditions of the Banyumas people. This dance was originally performed as part of rituals and ceremonies aimed at promoting fertility, prosperity, and community well-being. Although the dance has undergone significant transformation, from being initially ritual-based to being more entertainment-oriented, it still maintains a strong connection to the religious beliefs of the Banyumas people. The conclusion of this study is that the Lengger Banyumasan dance is a rich and multifaceted performing art, rooted in the religious and cultural traditions of the Banyumas region. Despite changes over time, the dance remains an important part of the social and cultural fabric of the region and is increasingly recognized for its significance as a unique and valuable form of cultural expression. Conservation and promotion efforts for this dance are ongoing to ensure its sustainability as a valuable cultural heritage.