As part of its 58th Anniversary celebration, the Faculty of Philosophy, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), hosted a Wayang Kulit (shadow puppet) performance featuring Ki Bagonk Darmono, S.H. as the puppeteer. The performance, held on Friday evening at the Faculty of Philosophy courtyard, presented the play Laire Rahwana accompanied by an exposition of Sastra Jendra Hayuning Pangruwating Diyu.
This cultural event was one of the highlights of the anniversary festivities, offering not only the richness of Javanese tradition but also philosophical reflection through traditional art. In her remarks, Dean of the Faculty of Philosophy, Prof. Dr. Rr. Siti Murtiningsih, S.S., M.Hum., emphasized that Wayang Kulit remains a meaningful medium of learning for the academic community.
“At this milestone in the Faculty of Philosophy’s journey, tonight we come together to give thanks for what has been bestowed upon us. Of course, this is symbolized by the lessons of Wayang Kulit that we will witness together, which certainly hold extraordinary philosophical meaning,” she stated.
She continued by encouraging students to engage further with the philosophical depth of wayang.
“Students who are interested can continue learning and exploring the philosophical significance of wayang. This shows that the Faculty of Philosophy will continue striving to uphold the values of the Indonesian nation. Thank you for your presence, and let us enjoy tonight’s wayang performance in its entirety, discovering the meanings and values it contains, which can serve as reflections of life itself,” she added.
The play Laire Rahwana offered a profound interpretation of the birth of one of the most famous antagonists in Javanese mythology, enriched with the exposition of Sastra Jendra Hayuning Pangruwating Diyu. Beyond entertainment, the performance became a medium for philosophical reflection on the essence of life, good and evil, and human values.
The enthusiasm was palpable, with students, lecturers, alumni, and members of the public filling the faculty courtyard. The atmosphere grew even more vibrant as the sounds of gamelan accompanied the performance well into the night.
Through this cultural event, the UGM Faculty of Philosophy reaffirmed its commitment to preserving the nation’s cultural heritage while simultaneously uncovering the philosophical wisdom embedded within it, in harmony with the spirit of its 58th Anniversary celebration.