Badung Ambassador Performs Kresna Duta Durjana Shadow Puppet at PKB XLVIII

Denpasar (National Archipelagic Wire) - Dhanan Jaya Cemagi Art Studio appeared to represent Badung Regency in the classic shadow puppet parade entitled Kresna Duta Durjana at the XLVIII Bali Arts Festival in Denpasar.

Cultural Background & Living Tradition

"Because the knight's yadnya is on the battlefield," said the puppeteer and chairman of Sanggar Dhanan Jaya, I Made Ariawan, before the performance at the Kria Art Center Building, Denpasar, Monday (6/7/2026).

The wayang performance involving 29 local artists presented the story of the Pandava dilemma in the Mahabarata war in harmony with the Atma Kerthi cultural theme.

This traditional art performance emphasizes a moral message about the obligation to uphold dharma values ​​and the importance of respecting the journey of the human atman.

Ceremonial Observance & Village Protocols

"There is a lot of advice here on how to love our body, the atman within us, and also how to prepare for the atman's journey when it is separated from our own body," added Ariawan.

The Badung Regency Government emphasized its commitment to continue to facilitate and accompany regional artists in preserving cultural arts on the provincial stage.

It is hoped that this classic shadow puppet performance will be able to educate the younger generation in building noble character according to the philosophical heritage of Balinese ancestors.

Respectful Visitor Etiquette

Balinese cultural traditions and customary rituals offer profound insights into the island's ancestral heritage. Visitors fortunate enough to witness ceremonies should dress respectfully in traditional waist sash and sarong, observe quietly from a courteous distance, and follow guidance from local village elders. Learn more about upcoming island ceremonies, sacred guidelines, and festival dates in our seasonal Bali Cultural Calendar.