The classic Ramayana at Prambanan Temple

The classic Ramayana at Prambanan Temple

The annual performance of the Ramayana epic is the most popular
of all Javanese dance performances held at the restored Prambanan
Temple in Klaten, Central Java.

The entire dance is performed from May through October each
year from 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. on four clear nights on and
around the full moon every month.

Over 50 professional dancers -- accompanied by a total of 250
supporting dancers and gamelan musicians -- are ready to
entertain spectators that flock the 1,000-seat large outdoor
amphitheater.

The Ramayana epic tells of the heroism of Rama -- whose wife
Shinta is taken hostage by Rahwana, the ruler of Alengkadiraja
kingdom.

During his endeavors to free his wife, Rama is helped by
younger brother Lesmana, a white monkey-knight Hanoman and a
mythical bird Jatayu.

Hanoman deploys hundreds of monkey soldiers to attack Alengka
in an effort to free Shinta. On the other side, Rahwana's younger
brother Kumbokarno, who has a good heart, is forced to help his
older brother for the pride of his country.

Just like other epics, where the good conquers evil, Rama
finally manages to free Shinta. However, Shinta must purify
herself by plunging into fire to prove her purity. The story ends
happily with Rama finally accepting Shinta back.

Text and photos by P.J. Leo