Bidu Dance, Traditional Dance From Belu NTT



Bidu Dance is a traditional dance from Belu, East Nusa Tenggara (NTT). This dance is usually performed by some male dancers and female dancers with traditional dress and dancing with a very distinctive movement. Bidu dance is one of the traditional dances are quite famous in the Belu community. It is said that this dance was formerly used by the people there as a media search for a mate for young people.

History of Bidu Dance


According to some sources, this Bidu Dance is a traditional dance that comes from the traditional tradition of Belu society that has been handed down from generation to generation. This dance was formerly used by the people there as a medium for young people, especially for teenagers who have been sanctioned by their parents or are ready to be married to get to know each other and choose the mate they want.

In Belu people's tradition, there are several stages that must be done by the youth before marriage. First, for the young men who are ready to make arrangements and planning first, which is often called Hameno Bidu. Then the young men meet in a predetermined place and do Bidu Dance with the local audience, including their parents.

In the dance, the young men will dance one by one while choosing the women he likes. After the young man found his dream woman, then the young man marked the woman he chose. After they both agree, then proceed with the next process that is Hanimak. Hanimak itself is a process of ethical, romantic and weighty introduction by men and women with permission from their parents.

After finding a match, usually, they will both do Binor, which is a process of exchanging and storing their respective items such as cloth, clothes, betel, and others. Once the stage has passed, then both parties will meet each other and plan the procession of the proposal. In this proposal usually, the suitor will bring the goods called Mama Lulik. Then proceed with Mama Tebes, which is the stage of discussing their wedding plans.

Functions And Meaning Of Bidu Dance


As explained earlier, Bidu Dance is a traditional dance that serves as a medium for young people to get to know each other and also choose their soul mate. In the dance, the male and female dancers will dance with their respective moves that describe the charm that they have. So when determining the choice of a mate they can know which one is in accordance with the wishes of them.

Bidu Dance Show


Bidu dance will usually be performed by some female dancers and male dancers. The number of dancers usually consists of 8 (eight) or more female dancers and 1 to 2 male dancers. In the show will usually begin with a row of marching while dancing into an arena. Then some of the female dancers presented the betel and areca nut they had brought to watch that was considered honorable. After that they went back to dance.

In Bidu Dance usually movements of male and female dancers are different. The movements of female dancers are usually dominated by gentle hand movements and the movement of the street legs in place. In the dance movement Bidu usually also there is a weaving movement performed by the female dancers. these movements are packed into a gentle movement depicting the elegance of a woman.

While the male dancers will usually dance with a typical movement while circling the female dancer. It depicts male dancers when choosing the women they want. The movement of this male dancer is usually lebuh dominated by hand movements are stretched while doing a circular motion.

Bidu Dance Companion


In Bidu Dance performances, usually accompanied by the accompaniment of musical instruments such as Guitar, Violin, and Sasando. The rhythm of the music that is played is generally a fast-paced rhythm. Yet the accompaniment of this accompaniment is also aligned with the dancers' movements to look beautiful. In addition to musical accompaniment, in the dance performances are also accompanied by traditional songs from Belu.

Bidu Dance Costume


In the show, the dancers will use traditional clothing complete with accessories. The female dancers will usually use a long sarong from chest to toe. At the top of the body the dancers use a blanket. In addition, female dancers use various accessories such as necklaces, belts, headbands, and bracelets that are typical of Belu. As for male dancers will usually use long-sleeved shirts and cloth selampang top, sarong at the bottom and Belu's typical belt.

Development of Bidu Dance


Although classified as a long dance, Bidu Dance is still preserved and also maintained its existence. Bidu dance is not only known by the Belu people but also known in some areas in the middle of the central island (East Nusa Tenggara). In its development, Bidu Dance has also been developed into several types of Bidu Dance, with a variety of movement, presentation of dance, accompaniment, and also a slightly different costume but still retain its trademark.


Bidu dance is additionally displayed in the traditional event, Bidu Dance is also often displayed in various events such as welcoming, performing arts and cultural festivals. This is done in an effort to preserve and introduce to the younger generation as well as to the wider community of traditions and culture that they have.