Guess What? Bagong Kussudiardja

In Javanese culture, ular-ular, or wedding advice, is usually delivered by the bride's father. But noted choreographer Bagong Kussudiardja, 67, wanted something different for his second marriage as he assigned his son, Butet Kartaredjasa to do the job.

"...despite his old age, the groom can be considered a 'teenager'. Why? Because he has just begun his new family. He is a beginner. I'm much more senior since I have been married for 19 years. Anytime you find a problem, please do not hesitate to consult with me," advised Butet, who is dubbed the King of Monologue.

Butet praised his father for waiting until 1,000 days had passed since his mother and Bagong's first wife passed away before marrying Yuli Sri Hastuti, 34, from the East Java town of Magetan. The ceremony was held in Yuli's hometown on Sept. 23 and the party was held on Oct. 9 at Bagong's studio in Kasihan, Bantul in Yogyakarta.

Butet saw the wedding as, among other things, a way to prolong his father's age and give him the happiness he desires.

"But that doesn't mean that we have a new mother. She is Bagong's wife but not my mother. No one can replace my mother, who has been resting in peace," Butet added.

Bagong did not say much about the wedding but clarified his true age. "My official age is 72 years, but actually I am 67 years old," said the father of seven and grandfather of 20. (swa)