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NGAJAT LESONG

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Introduction and history

Among the Iban ethnic group, the Ngajat Lesong dance, also known as Ngajat Ngetup Lesong or Ngajat Manggum Lesong, is performed exclusively by male dancers. This dance is both captivating and unique due to the use of a rice-pounding mortar (lesung) as part of the performance, showcasing the dancers' strength, vigour, and skill.

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In the Ngajat Lesong dance, the performer lifts the mortar (lesung) with his teeth for several moments during the performance. This thrilling act is usually accompanied by the Ngajat Indu dance as an interlude to complement the Ngajat Lesong.

This traditional dance highlights a competition among men vying for the favor of women to take as wives. The men demonstrate their strength and skill by lifting the heavy mortar, which can weigh up to 20 kilograms, using only their teeth. The winner is determined by his ability and endurance in lifting the mortar until no one else can match his feat.

The Ngajat Lesong dance becomes even more captivating and unique with its portrayal of joyful and lively scenes reflecting the daily activities of farmers, particularly in pounding rice with pestles. Additional props such as the sintung (a type of basket) and chapan (a winnowing tray) are also featured in the performance to symbolize bountiful harvests and to ward off evil spirits.

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