Sacred Dances and Baleganjur Enliven Bedha Traditional Village Cultural Parade

A cultural parade was held as part of the 34th anniversary celebrations of the Bedha Traditional Village Credit Institution (LPD). Carrying the theme ‘Nangun Kerthi Jagat Bali’, the event serves as a platform to strengthen community harmony through the Tri Hita Karana concept, whilst preserving Balinese arts, customs, and culture. The cultural performances featured sacred dances, such as the Gambuh Dance, Baris Kerkuak Dance, and Baris Dabdab Dance. The event also included a baleganjur parade, gong kebyar, an ogoh-ogoh parade, and a penjor parade with participants from 38 traditional neighbourhoods (banjar adat) in Bedha Traditional Village. The parade took place over three days, from Friday to Sunday. Bedha Traditional Village Head I Nyoman Arnaya stated that the cultural parade is not merely a performance event, but also a means to strengthen relationships within the community. He noted that it is not easy to bring all traditional neighbourhoods together in one activity. Through the cultural parade, each neighbourhood has the opportunity to showcase its artistic and traditional wealth, allowing them to get to know each other and strengthen their sense of brotherhood. Arnaya explained that the cultural parade is held every five years as part of the LPD Bedha anniversary commemoration. He said the existence of the LPD not only functions as a traditional village financial institution but also bears the responsibility of preserving culture. The entire cost of the cultural parade was covered by the LPD as a commitment to supporting the preservation of customs and to introduce the LPD’s role, which is not only to build the community’s economy but also to safeguard Balinese cultural identity. In addition to artistic performances, the activity also involved local micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). Arnaya said the involvement of MSMEs provides an opportunity to introduce various local superior products to the wider community, one of which is keris (traditional dagger) craftsmanship from Banjar Langudu, Pangkung Tibah Village. Arnaya expressed hope that the activity would stimulate the community’s economy, at least at the traditional village level, through increased trading activity and public visits during the event. He emphasised the importance of involving the younger generation in every traditional and cultural activity, stating that the sustainability of Balinese culture depends heavily on the participation of the next generation. He added that people can be proud of technological advancements but must not forget their culture. Chairman of LPD Bedha, I Made Sunarta, said the 34th anniversary carried the theme ‘Bedha Bersatu Menuju Masyarakat Mandiri’ (Bedha United Towards an Independent Society). A series of activities had been ongoing since January 2026, including the distribution of 500 basic food packages to underprivileged residents. He added that awards were also given to several community figures for their dedication to developing the Bedha Traditional Village.