Judul : Tracing the History of Pacu Jalur, an Indonesian Tradition Resonating Worldwide: Origin, Meaning, and Philosophy
link : Tracing the History of Pacu Jalur, an Indonesian Tradition Resonating Worldwide: Origin, Meaning, and Philosophy
Tracing the History of Pacu Jalur, an Indonesian Tradition Resonating Worldwide: Origin, Meaning, and Philosophy
Best for you - The Pacu Jalur race is now attracting the attention of the global community. This traditional boat race, unique to the people of Kuantan Singingi, Riau, suddenly went viral after the performance of a young boy named Ryan Arkandika captured the attention of the international public. In a video that spread widely on social media, Ryan appeared dancing energetically at the end of the long boat during the Pacu Jalur race.
Its agile and passionate movements not only entertain, but also spark curiosity among many people about the tradition that inspired this dance.
It didn't take long, the Pacu Jalur dance trend spread to various countries. World-famous football clubs such as Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and AC Milan even joined in this moment by imitating Ryan's dance moves.
Behind the popularity of this action, the world community has started to pay attention to Riau, not just because of the entertaining dance, but because of the deep-rooted cultural heritage there.
Then, where is the true origin of Pacu Jalur? How did it develop from a means of transportation into a competition event and a symbol of pride?
History and Origin of Pacu Jalur
The history of Pacu Jalur began in the 17th century along the Kuantan River.
At that time, the significant route was a large wooden boat without joints used as the main means of transportation for the people in the Rantau Kuantan area.
Considering the underdeveloped land transportation at that time, the route was a vital means to transport agricultural products such as bananas and sugarcane, as well as to carry 40–60 people from one place to another.
Over time, the paths have undergone changes in shape and function. Some paths are decorated with carvings of snake heads, crocodile, or tiger, as well as provided with decorative accessories such as umbrellas, ropes, scarves, and central poles (gulang-gulang).
This change reflects social status, as decorated paths were usually used by nobles and local rulers.
Slowly, the community began to hold speed competitions between lanes, which is now known as Pacu Jalur.
Initially, Pacu Jalur was held to commemorate major Islamic days and was held simply in villages along the Kuantan River.
However, since the Dutch colonial era, this race has been combined with traditional celebrations and the birthday of Queen Wilhelmina of the Netherlands, which falls on August 31.
Even during the colonial era, competitions were held for two to three days, depending on the number of participants.
After Indonesia's independence, this tradition transformed into part of the celebration of Indonesia's Independence Day every August.
The Kuantan Singingi Regency government has made this event as an annual tourism agenda.
Every year, hundreds of thousands of people, both from within the country and abroad, come to witness this major event.
The number of participants in the route can reach more than 100 boats, making Teluk Kuantan City crowded with spectators.
Path Structure and the Important Role of the Dancer
A log or a dugout canoe is usually made from a single large piece of wood without joints and can carry up to 60 people.
In the line, there are three important roles: the onjai (at the back) who swings to provide direction and power, the timba (in the middle) who acts as the commander and gives commands, and the tari (in front), the figure who has gone viral due to the creativity of children in dancing.
Dancers are not just decorations. They have an important role as markers of excellence and motivators.
When its path starts to outpace the other paths, the dancer dances with enthusiasm to signal the team that they are leading, thus boosting the rowers' morale.
Meaning of Pacu Jalur
Pacu Jalur is not just a boat race on the river, but a symbol of culture, togetherness, and pride of the Kuantan Singingi community that has been passed down for centuries.
In every long boat rowed synchronously by dozens of oarsmen, there are noble values such as cooperation, discipline, fighting spirit, and a sense of unity.
Every element in this competition, from the referee's whistle, the rhythmic rowing strokes, to the dancer's performance at the end of the boat, reflects the unity and harmony of a community united under one goal.
More than just a form of entertainment or traditional water sports, Pacu Jalur is a manifestation of local identity that revives history, strengthens solidarity, and serves as a medium for the artistic, creative, and spiritual expression of the Kuansing community.
This is why Pacu Jalur is not only celebrated joyfully every year, but also deeply meaningful as an intangible cultural heritage that unites the past, present, and future of the Riau community.***
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