Forgotten Balinese Maestro Dancer
The Legacy of Anak Agung Oka Dalem (Gung Aji)
Anak Agung Oka Dalem or Gung Aji is a revered traditional dance maestro from Puri Kaleran Peliatan Ubud Born into a family of distinguished artists he is the son of Gung Kak Mandera a legendary figure in Balinese music and dance and a dancer mother Gung Kak Mandera was the founder of Kelompok Musik dan Tari Gunung Sari and a pioneer who introduced the Balinese performing arts to the world In the 1930s he toured Europe and famously performed in Paris leaving a lasting impression on the international stage. Gung Kak Mandrea gained recognition as a leading Balinese dancer and embarked on worldwide concert tours as early as 1952. Among his notable contributions is the creation of Legong Nandira a unique version of the traditionally female Legong dance adapted for male dancers This innovative approach is part of his broader mission to ensure the sustainability of Balinese dance and culture for future generations.
To that end, Gung Aji has tirelessly conducted free dance classes for children daily, nurturing a new generation of talented performers. His dedication has inspired and shaped many of Bali’s celebrated dancers today. After Gung Kak Mandera’s passing in 1986, Gung Aji took up the mantle and continued his father’s legacy through several vital initiatives:
• Preserving the unique music and dance style of Peliatan.
• Creating a space to teach classical music and dance to younger generations.
• Training new dancers and musicians to perform in both traditional and commercial settings.
• Safeguarding endangered art forms, including Legong Peliatan and the village’s classical Pelegongan style.
He established the Theatre of Balerung Mandera Srinertya Waditra to support these goals which is located in Peliatan Village Ubud The Balerung Stage is now a renowned cultural venue offering audiences an immersive experience of Bali s rich artistic heritage through traditional dance and music performances Despite its cultural significance Balerung Theatre faces challenges It lacks a strong management team, is located away from the main tourist hubs and competes with numerous other performance venues in Ubud As a result, it often remains under the radar even among tourism stakeholders and now needs support to continue its vital cultural mission.
Top Indonesia is proud to have exclusive access to Gung Aji and Balerung Theatre We offer our clients the unique opportunity to host private events at the theatre or arrange private dance and gamelan lessons for families and small groups curated personally by the maestro For more information or to arrange a private cultural experience, please contact us at info@topindonesiaholidays.com.
