Winter Camp 5.0 X International Day: Celebrating the Timeless Charm of Javanese Culture

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There are many ways to introduce the richness of local culture. One of them is through theatrical performances.

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Global Friends, a student volunteer community affiliated with the International Affairs Cooperation Office (IACO), held a cultural event featuring a theatrical performance titled "Balada Ramayana."

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This event is an annual agenda aimed at introducing and preserving Javanese culture. In addition, Global Friends also hopes to provide a platform for participants to expand their networks and gain opportunities through international programs offered.

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On Saturday, April 14, 2025, the event was successfully held in a hybrid format at the Agnes Widanti Auditorium SCU and via Zoom meeting. The success was reflected in the participation of 300 people from various universities. The event was also graced by the presence of distinguished guests from the SCU rectorate and the Director of IACO.

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The event featured various activities, including a drama performance by Anting Theater, Merak Dance by UKM Kembang Taru, a fashion show, group discussion, and an after-party. In addition, Global Friends offered information on various international scholarship programs through booths set up near the entrance of the auditorium.

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Throughout the performance of "Balada Ramayana," the audience's gasps of admiration echoed in the auditorium. This legendary story tells the romantic-heroic tale of Rama and the sincerity of Sinta's heart, depicted through an epic struggle.

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The story begins with Rama, Sinta, and Laksamana (Rama's brother) enjoying the tranquility of the Dandaka forest. Soon, this peace is shattered when Sinta is abducted by the antagonistic giant, Rahwana, who is captivated by Sinta's beauty. The tension reaches its peak during the battle between Ayodya, led by Rama, and Alengka, led by Rahwana. Rama's perseverance and sacrifices lead to victory and the return of his beloved wife, Sinta. The story concludes with an emotional climax as Sinta proves her purity to Rama through a self-immolation act.

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We can convey profound moral messages through several characters. Through Rama, we learn about loyalty and sacrifice, demonstrated by his struggle to achieve victory. We also learn about the meaning of patience, as shown by Sinta in enduring her suffering. Meanwhile, Rahwana teaches us that true love does not come through coercion.

 

After the drama, the event continued with a fashion show.

This activity was accompanied by readings of the philosophies behind the characters' clothing and introductions of the characters to the participants.​

Through the fashion show and readings, participants gained a deeper understanding of the characters.

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The series of activities for online participants ended here. However, Global Friends prepared an exciting lineup for offline participants, allowing them to interact more intensively. Offline participants were asked to gather and sit in a circle in the hall, showing camaraderie among them.

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Finally, the event concluded with an after-party. This activity added an unforgettable sense of euphoria among the participants. After the event concluded with a prayer, the participants gathered and moved to the stage. They danced and captured the moment to the sound of lively music.