Celebrate Indonesia with Kawan Budaya

Luche
Dec 30, 2022
2 min read

Updated: Dec 11, 2024

Back in Fall 2022, I participated in one of NYC's very first events celebrating Indonesian culture. Although a lot of Indonesians live in New York, there was not yet an event like this for its community. Kawan Budaya is a dedicated team that raises awareness of the country's rich history and culture. Together with The Consulate General of the Republic of Indonesia teamed up for a weekend full of performances, panel discussions, and food.

Upon entering there were vendors lined up and ready. Everything on sale from jewelry, artwork, coffee, clothes to Djamu (a traditional herbal tonic).

The event opened with its first performance by Mrs. Ida Ayu Candrawati and her dancers performing traditional Balinese. Mrs. Candrawati now teaches Balinese dance at the Consulate in New York.

Performer Pak Ngurah Kertayuda is a Wayang Puppeteer and Balinese Dance Performer. Shadow puppetry is known as Wayang Kulit and popular in Java and Bali cultures. It is performed behind a projected linen screen with carefully lit light to emphasize the story.

At the first day a panel discussion connected local Indonesian business owners in NYC. They were asked questions on what inspired them to open their business and how their culture helped shape and define their goals. From products to hospitality, all agreed that a need for Indonesian culture should be included in NYC's melting pot.

On the last day, two musically trained artists, Jimmy Lim and Eunike Tanzil, teamed up to play a mix of classic and popular songs. The outcome led to a mix of the younger and older generations connecting.

The two-day celebration was well attended and even attracted curious bystanders. On the second day, I met a guest who found the event through Google and was genuinely interested because she knew nothing about Indonesia.

Kawan Budaya did an amazing job teaching and showcasing traditional song, dance, costume and food for all guests. Until next year, I'll be visiting local Indonesian eateries.