UNS – Universitas Sebelas Maret (UNS) Surakarta hosted a shadow puppet show featuring the story of Abiyasa Boyong. The event took place offline at the UNS Javanology Hall and was broadcast live on the Universitas Sebelas Maret YouTube channel on Monday (20/5/2024) evening. This event was part of a series of activities commemorating the 48th Dies Natalies of UNS.

The Abiyasa Boyong shadow puppet performance was presented by puppeteer Ki Dr. Ir. Warseno Slenk, M.Si. The event was also enlivened by Karawitan Sekar Rinonce by the Dharma Wanita Persatuan UNS and the Sesaji Sebelas Maret Dance by Student Activity Unit (UKM) of the Traditional Arts Coordination Board (BKKT).

On this occasion, UNS also invited guest star Endah Laras. The shadow puppet show was supported by the Alumni Family Association (IKA) of the Faculty of Law (FH) UNS, which provided various attractive door prizes.

In his remarks, Vice Rector for Academic and Student Affairs of UNS, Prof. Dr. Ir. Ahmad Yunus, M.S., stated that the selection of the Abiyasa Boyong story was appropriate as a manifestation of UNS’s determination to transform towards a better spiritual and achievement-oriented mentality. This puppet show is expected to provide encouragement and spirit as an intellectual and cultural nation.

“The togetherness of the UNS academic community will lead to readiness to face various world challenges with intellectual intelligence and noble character,” Prof. Yunus said.

The Chair of the UNS Javanology Center of Excellence (PUI), Prof. Sahid Teguh Widodo, Ph.D., also conveyed that the establishment of UNS in Solo, which is the center and heart of Javanese culture, reinforces the determination and efforts to preserve its heritage. On this occasion, shadow puppet or ringgit wacucal was performed for the UNS academic community and the surrounding community in a special moment.

“This (shadow puppet show) is also in line with UNS’s vision as a center for the development of science, technology, and art that excels nationally and internationally. This performance also marks the commemoration of National Awakening Day which falls on May 20th every year,” Prof. Sahid, who is also the Chair of the Arts and Culture Division of the 48th UNS Dies Natalies Committee, said.

The Chair of the 48th UNS Dies Natalies Committee, Drs. Harjana, Ph.D., emphasized that this shadow puppet show is not just an art performance but also proof that UNS cares and is responsible for introducing culture to the next generation. The diverse cultures in each region deserve to be preserved based on national culture.

In his closing remarks, he, who also serves as the Acting Dean of the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences (FMIPA) UNS, conveyed that the shadow puppet show marks the end of the anniversary celebration series. As a conclusion, UNS will hold an exhibition in June 2024.

The Abiyasa Boyong shadow puppet story tells of the kingdom of Astina facing the problem of who will succeed Prabu Sentanu. Resi Bisma himself has sworn not to become King of Astina.

Amidst the negotiations, the soldiers of Gajahoya led by Prabu Gajah Sura attacked. He is a figure who wants to take over the kingdom of Astina. Prabu Sentanu and Resi Bisma were confused and overwhelmed by it.

Bisma said that only Abiyasa could stop the enemy’s attack. Then, he is the one who will later succeed the throne of the Astina kingdom. Bisma set out to find Abiyasa.

After meeting, Abiyasa was finally crowned as the King of Astina with the title of Prabu Kresna Dipayana. He also managed to defeat King Gajah Sura.

Humas UNS

Reporter: R. P. Adji
Editor: Dwi Hastuti