The Enigmatic Origins of Beskalan Putri Dance in Malang

Documentation of Beskalan Dance by Chattam AR (photo Hidajat)

Damariotimes. The Beskalan Putri Dance, a traditional performance art from Malang, holds a mystique that continues to captivate cultural enthusiasts and historians alike. Its origins remain shrouded in mystery, as there is no definitive documentation of its creation. However, oral traditions and folklore passed down through generations provide fascinating glimpses into its past.

One of the most significant contributors to preserving the Beskalan Putri Dance is M. Soleh Adipramono, who gathered stories from dancers like the late Mak Riyati. Mak Riyati, a revered Beskalan dancer, performed her final dance in 1995 at Padepokan Seni Mangundarmo in Tumpang. Her rendition of the dance was believed to reflect the style popularized by Muskayah, a legendary figure from the 1920s.

Muskayah, also known as Sukanti before her name was changed following a miraculous recovery from illness, was a celebrated dancer from Ngadireso village, Poncokusumo, Malang. According to folklore, Sukanti dreamt of meeting Proboretno, a princess from the Mataram Kingdom, who taught her the Beskalan dance as a form of healing. Upon waking, Sukanti's illness disappeared, and she began to dance with renewed vigor, accompanied by traditional kendang beats. This transformative event marked the beginning of her fame as a dancer, with her performances captivating audiences far beyond Malang, reaching areas like Probolinggo, Pasuruan, and Lumajang.

The dance’s heritage was also carried forward by figures like Pak Rasimon, who reproduced Beskalan choreography for a teacher training program in Malang in 1992. Notably, Rasimon’s version of the dance was studied by renowned choreographer Didik Nini Thowok, emphasizing the cultural significance of this art form.

Historically, the Beskalan dance was performed by both male and female dancers. Interestingly, in certain contexts, male performers, often referred to as "wedhokan", adopted feminine roles to portray the dance. This practice reflects the fluidity and adaptability of traditional performing arts in response to societal norms and circumstances.

The legacy of Beskalan Putri Dance is a testament to the resilience of oral traditions and the dedication of its practitioners. Despite its uncertain origins, the dance continues to symbolize the cultural richness of Malang and remains a cherished part of Indonesia's artistic heritage. Through the efforts of figures like Mak Riyati, Pak Rasimon, and M. Soleh Adipramono, the Beskalan Putri Dance lives on as a vibrant connection to the past, inspiring future generations to embrace their cultural roots.

Written by R.Dt.,

Edited by H. Gum.