Saman dance

Among the diversity of traditional dance art that comes from the tribes of Indonesia, saman dance is one of the traditional dances that fall into a very unique category. The uniqueness of saman dance lies not only in its compact dance movements, but also in the harmonization of the song and the choir that accompanies it. Its uniqueness is also what makes this Aceh Land dance became very famous, not only in the country, but also all over the world.
Well, here, let's discuss the uniqueness of saman dance from history, origin, movement, song, choir and costume dancers.

The Origins and History of Saman Dance
Saman Dance is a dance from Gayo tribe, Aceh which was developed in the 14th century by a great scholar named Sheikh Saman. This dance was originally just a folk game called Pok Ane. Islamic culture that entered the Gayo area at that time berakulturasi with Pok Ane game, so that the singing of Pok Ane game player that was initially only complementary, turned into a song full of meaning and praise to Allah. The Islamic culture also changed some movements in saman dance from pats and seating changes. Saman dance in the Sultanate of Aceh was only shown at the celebration of the Prophet Muhammad's mawlid at surau-surau or mosque in the Gayo area, but in its development he was also played on public occasions such as birthday parties, weddings, circumcisions, and other events now.

Since 24 November 2011, saman dance has been designated as one of Indonesia's Unique Cultural Heritage by UNESCO in the sixth session of the Intergovernmental Committee held in Bali. The dance which is known in English as "Dance of Thousand Hand" is still preserved, not only by the tribe of Aceh Gayo, but also by all the people of the world who admire its uniqueness.

Dancers and Saman Dance Movement

In the beginning, saman dance was only played by men who numbered no more than 10 people, 8 as dancers and 2 as giver of cue. However, in its development, realized that a dance will become more vibrant when played by more dancers, so saman dance can be danced by more than 10 dancers.
Meaning and Meaning of Saman Dance

Apart from the variety of uniqueness, saman dance for the people of Aceh has a very deep meaning and meaning. This dance symbolizes the high courtesy, education, togetherness, cohesiveness and heroism of religious Acehnese society.