The Student Activity Unit (UKM) Swagayugama has once again demonstrated its commitment to preserving Yogyakarta-style Javanese arts through a grand performance entitled “Cakra Laksana.” Held at the Concert Hall of Taman Budaya Yogyakarta on Saturday (24 October 2026), the event is an annual program that serves as a platform for appreciation and a showcase of members’ work following a period of rehearsals.

This year’s performance featured four artistic presentations in sequence: the Klana Alus Cangklek dance, the “Teguh Jiwa” Karawitan Concert, Beksan Menak Wiragama, and the dance drama Bahara Gati Maya, representing the diversity of traditional Yogyakarta-style Javanese arts. Klana Alus Cangklek, created by KRT. Sasminta Mardawa and Condro Radono, tells the story of Prabu Dasalengkara, who falls in love with Dewi Siti Sendari. The “Teguh Jiwa” Karawitan Concert featured Ladrang Teguh Jiwa Laras Slendro Pathet Sanga, composed by Raden Wedono Yosef Larassumbogo during the Second Dutch Military Aggression to depict the 1 March 1949 General Offensive through a combination of instruments imitating the sounds of warfare and the Kinanthi Teguh Jiwa vocal ensemble. Meanwhile, Beksan Menak Wiragama highlights the spirit of learning and valuing the process through the example set by Patih Gadjah Mada, as well as the agility of female warriors. The performance concluded with Bahara Gati Maya, a dance drama depicting Prince Mangkubumi’s inner struggle to understand the meaning of the fight and the ego of victory amid the suffering of the people caused by war.

Students from the Javanese Language, Literature, and Culture Study Program also played an active role in making the performance a success. Their involvement extended beyond a single type of performance and encompassed various aspects of the event, from onstage performances to organizing committee duties.

Onstage, students participated as dancers and gamelan musicians. As dancers, they took part in several dance performances, including a dance drama that draws on the traditions of Yogyakarta-style Javanese performing arts. Meanwhile, as gamelan musicians, they accompanied the “Teguh Jiwa” Karawitan Concert and helped provide musical accompaniment for dance performances and dance dramas alongside other Swagayugama members.

In addition to participating in the performances, students also contributed as members of the organizing committee. They took part in various stages of the event, from preparation through execution. These roles were an important part of ensuring the smooth running of the entire performance.

The students’ active involvement in “Cakra Laksana” demonstrates the connection between classroom learning and the direct practice of cultural preservation. Through their participation in both performing arts and event organization, students of the Javanese Language, Literature, and Culture Study Program contributed to sustaining Yogyakarta-style Javanese arts so that they remain alive and continue to be known by future generations.

Author            : Nindy Rosalina Ekaputri
Editor             : Haryo Untoro