Yogyakarta, 18 Juli 2026 – The Asthamiswala gamelan ensemble from the Performing Arts and Visual Arts Studies Program (PSPSR) at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) took part in enlivening the stage at the “Festival Karawitan & Bazar Nusantara” (Karawitan Festival & Nusantara Bazaar). Organized by the Faculty of Philosophy UGM, this event was part of the series commemorating the faculty’s 59th anniversary (Dies Natalis).
Held in a hybrid format over two days on Saturday and Sunday, July 18–19, 2026, the festival took place at Firdaus Field, Faculty of Philosophy UGM, and was broadcast live via the official Faculty of Philosophy UGM YouTube channel. The event was open to the general public, welcoming audiences to enjoy the artistic performances both in person and online.
The Karawitan Festival featured 52 gamelan ensembles from various backgrounds. The Asthamiswala group from PSPSR UGM performed on the first day, Saturday, July 18, 2026, at 3:45 PM. Under the guidance of instructor Anon Suneko, M.Sn., a Doctoral student at PSPSR UGM, Asthamiswala presented two captivating performances: Ladrang Pamularsih Pl. Br. as the opening piece, followed by the Klana Topeng Sembung Langu/Menak Jingga-Dhayun Mask Dance, accompanied by Lancaran Bendrong. The dance was performed by Damas Ilham Dwi Mahardika, a Master’s student at PSPSR UGM.
The participation of the PSPSR UGM Study Program in this cultural event was more than just a showcase of artistic talent; it was a tangible demonstration of UGM’s commitment to supporting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly:
- SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being): Promoting mental and emotional well-being through artistic and cultural activities that offer enrichment, joy, and therapeutic value to the public.
- SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities): Fostering cultural inclusivity by providing free and equal access to art performances for all segments of society, both onsite and online.
- SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities): Supporting the preservation of local cultural heritage as part of building sustainable and inclusive communities.
- SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions): Promoting a culture of peace, tolerance, and social harmony within society through the noble values embedded in traditional Indonesian arts.
- SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals): Strengthening partnerships and collaborations among academic elements and the broader public to preserve and advance Indonesian culture. (NA)
