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TARI SANGGUL LINTANG
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Introduction and history
The Sanggul Lintang Dance of Melaka is a traditional dance originating from the state of Melaka (Malacca). This dance is rooted in Minangkabau culture, which is part of the broader Malay cultural heritage in the region. "Sanggul Lintang" refers to a distinctive hairstyle often worn during performances, where the hair is styled into a special bun resembling a "star" or "cross."
This graceful dance highlights the traditions, customs, and aesthetic beauty of the region. The movements are characterized by soft and intricate gestures that often convey respect, hospitality, and grace. Traditionally, the dance is performed during ceremonial or cultural events, such as weddings. However, some claim that the Sanggul Lintang hairstyle is also associated with the Baba and Nyonya community. The Sanggul Lintang, positioned at the back of the head, is made of two sections tied at the center. This headpiece, crafted from a combination of copper, gold, and suasa (a type of alloy), symbolizes the grandeur of Malay customs, particularly during the wedding ceremonies of Melaka's Malay community in ancient times.
In the past, hairstyles were often linked to a woman's personality. Here lies the uniqueness of the Sanggul Lintang, used as a bridal hairstyle in wedding ceremonies. Additionally, many may not realize the variety of floral motifs that adorned the hairpins for the bun. These include patterns like Senayan flowers, Sundah Belum flowers, Kekwa flowers, Short White flowers, and Long White Ferns, inspired by wild plants found in the forest. Due to the extraordinary uniqueness of the Sanggul Lintang, the Sanggul Lintang Dance was created to showcase the beauty of the Henna Night (Malam Berinai) in the Malay Melaka community. The dance movements portray the joy of the bride and highlight the high value of Melaka's traditional bridal attire.
The Sanggul Lintang Dance celebrates the movements of the bridal couple and showcases the elegance of the wedding attire. This dance symbolizes the significance of the bride and groom, often referred to as "king and queen for a day," with the bride's Sanggul Lintang hairstyle during the wedding ceremony and reception symbolizing her responsibilities to her husband. The dance is frequently performed during traditional ceremonies, festivals, and formal events.
The primary roles of the Sanggul Lintang Dance in Melaka include:
A Symbol of Melaka's Malay Cultural Identity:
The Sanggul Lintang Dance is part of Melaka's rich cultural heritage with a long history. It reflects the rich aesthetics and traditions of the Malay culture passed down through generations. The dance serves to preserve the cultural identity of the Melaka community.
A Complement to Ceremonial Events and Festivities:
This dance is often performed during significant celebrations such as weddings, grand receptions, and other traditional ceremonies. It adds vibrancy to the event and provides an element of beauty and joy to the atmosphere.
A Symbol of Malay Women's Grace:
The dance highlights the soft and gentle demeanor that symbolizes the beauty and noble character of Malay women. The dancers often wear traditional attire that conveys dignity and social status. This dance also serves as a way to preserve the traditional culture that has long existed in Melaka.
Main Features of the Sanggul Lintang Dance:
Hairstyle (Sanggul Lintang):
The unique hairstyle worn by the dancers is a prominent feature of this performance. "Sanggul" refers to a bun, often styled elaborately and neatly. This hairstyle symbolizes beauty and femininity in traditional Malay culture.
Movements and Expressions:
The dance features graceful movements with gentle arm and body gestures, symbolizing respect, beauty, and harmony. Dancers often maintain an upright posture, conveying elegance and serenity.
The Sanggul Lintang Dance is characterized by distinctive costumes and accessories used by the dancers. Each accessory carries its own meaning. For example, the Sanggul Lintang worn on the head of women symbolizes the responsibilities they will bear in the future. In the past, these buns were heavy, causing some discomfort for the wearer.
Dancers typically wear traditional Malay attire such as:
Traditional Baju Kurung: This is paired with a sarong or selendang (scarf).
Traditional Songket Fabric: Often woven with gold or silver threads, the Songket symbolizes luxury and elegance. It is usually worn as a sarong or selendang during the dance.
Selendang (Scarf): This accessory complements the costume and enhances the movements of the dance.
Hairpiece or Bun (Sanggul): As the name suggests, the hairstyle plays a significant role in this dance. The "Sanggul Lintang" is a large bun tied neatly, adding an elegant and formal impression.
Overall, the Sanggul Lintang Dance is a beautiful and culturally rich performance that reflects the artistry and traditions of the Malay community, emphasizing grace, beauty, and heritage.
The Sanggul Lintang Dance involves various tools and materials that support the dancers' appearance and movements.
Key Items:
Hair Accessories:
Hair is styled into a large and neat bun, usually adorned with accessories like flowers or gold ornaments. The bun is a distinctive element of the dance.
Hair padding is used to reinforce the bun, making it appear larger and more elegant.
Additional decorations like flowers or golden pins are used to beautify the bun, adding a traditional and elegant touch.
Example of Accessories:
Hairpins: These are used to decorate the dancer's hair, giving a formal and graceful impression.
Accompanying Musical Instruments:
Musical instruments play a crucial role in supporting the dance movements. Instruments used include:
Gendang (Traditional Drums): These provide rhythm and tempo for the dance.
Serunai (Traditional Flute): This wind instrument provides a unique Malay melody.
Overall, the equipment in the Sanggul Lintang Dance aims to enhance visual beauty and exude elegance while paying homage to Malay cultural traditions.
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Reference Source
Bahan Bacaan
Zaiton M. R. (2002). Tarian Tradisional Melayu. Kuala Lumpur: Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka.
Asmah Haji Omar (2010). Pengantar Seni Tarian Malaysia. Kuala Lumpur: Penerbit Universiti Malaya.
Location
State JKKN Contact Information
Nur Al-Farani binti Rosli
Cultural Officer
Jabatan Kebudayaan dan Kesenian Negara, Melaka
Kompleks JKKN Melaka
Hang Tuah Jaya, Lebuh Ayer Keroh,
75450 MELAKA
06 - 763 6308
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