Angklung Legend

The Legend of Angklung: Melodies of Rice and the Ritual of the Goddess

Edisi Indonesia: Legenda Angklung

In ancient times, in the fertile and colorful land of Sunda, a musical tradition took root that has deeply intertwined with the lives of its people. Angklung, a distinctive bamboo musical instrument, is not just an instrument; it symbolizes life and ritual, reflecting the close connection between humans and nature.

Origins of Angklung

During the 12th to 16th centuries, under the auspices of the Sunda Kingdom, the people who relied on rice as their staple food began to develop the angklung. For them, rice was not only a food source but also a symbol of life and prosperity. They believed that the Rice Goddess, Nyai Sri Pohaci, was the giver of life and well-being.

Myths and Rituals

Legend has it that Nyai Sri Pohaci resided in an invisible realm. To call her down to earth and bless their rice crops, the Sunda people created the angklung. This musical instrument was played during various rituals with the primary goal of inviting Dewi Sri to ensure their rice plants grew lush and plentiful.

Angklung Gubrag: Melodies from Bogor

In Jasinga, Bogor, there is a unique tradition known as angklung gubrag. This tradition has been alive for over 400 years and is still practiced today. During angklung gubrag performances, players energetically and synchronously play the angklung. This ritual is believed to awaken the spirit and invite blessings from Dewi Sri.

Celebration and Rituals

Every year, at the onset of the rice planting season, the Badui people, descendants of the original Sundanese, conduct a ritual with angklung as part of the ceremony to begin rice planting. Through the performance of angklung, they express their prayers and hopes for a bountiful harvest.

Cultural Heritage and Its Impact

Angklung is not merely a musical instrument but a cultural heritage that connects people with nature and their ancestors. The melodies of the angklung reflect the beliefs, hopes, and unity of the Sunda people in sustaining their lives through agriculture.

Get Involved

Let us preserve and celebrate the beauty of angklung by experiencing it firsthand through performances or by trying to make and play angklung ourselves. It’s a wonderful way to gain a deeper understanding of the culture and traditions that shape our identity.

Angklung