Jakarta, Indonesia Sentinel — Ondel ondel is a traditional performance inseparable part of Betawi culture and has become an iconic symbol of Jakarta. For Jakarta residents, this unique art form is a familiar sight, often seen on the streets, in restaurants, or during performances, especially on special occasions.
Historically, ondel ondel dates back to before the 1600s. This was noted by an English merchant named W. Scot in his travel journals, where he described seeing giant puppets in a traditional ceremony in Sunda Kelapa, a precursor to present-day Jakarta. Although the term “ondel ondel” was not specifically mentioned, the giant puppet figure closely resembled the cultural icon we know today.
Another traveler, E.R. Scidmore from the United States, wrote about ondel ondel in the late 19th century. In her book Java, The Garden of The East, she described street performances in Batavia (modern-day Jakarta), where giant puppets were paraded around by large crowds.
According to local Betawi elders, ondel ondel has been passed down through generations, originating from ancient rituals. Historically, ondel ondel was used in ceremonies meant to ward off evil spirits or diseases that plagued villages. Over time, the tradition has evolved, and today, ondel ondel performances are still held to enliven public celebrations, weddings, and to welcome distinguished guests, such as at building inaugurations.
Ondel Ondel Performance
Ondel ondel are large puppets made from bamboo frames, dressed in colorful clothing and adorned with human-like accessories. During performances, a person, usually a man due to the weight, steps inside the puppet and moves it around.
Typically, ondel ondel are made in pairs, representing a bride and groom. The male puppet is usually red, symbolizing strength and courage, while the female is white, representing purity and goodness.
Standing at around 2.5 meters tall and 80 centimeters wide, an ondel ondel puppet weighs between 20 to 25 kilograms. The bamboo framework helps keep the weight manageable. The puppet’s head is topped with a mask-like face and crowned with either coconut fibers for hair or a traditional pointed headpiece known as kembang kelapa.
The male ondel ondel typically wears dark-colored clothing, while the female is dressed in bright, often floral-patterned garments, and both puppets are accessorized with sashes. Ondel ondel performances are accompanied by traditional Betawi music, including tanjidor, gambang kromong, rebana drums, and gendang pencak.
The Meaning Behind Ondel-Ondel
Passed down through generations, ondel ondel carries deep symbolic meaning. The red mask of the male puppet signifies that men must be brave and strong, while the white mask of the female represents the importance of purity.
The kembang kelapa atop the ondel ondel’s head symbolizes strength. Just as the coconut tree has strong roots and every part of it can be used, the ondel ondel represents resilience. The male puppet is named Kobar, symbolizing the need to earn a living in the world, while the female puppet, Borah, signifies the afterlife, reminding people to do good and stay connected to their faith.
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In the past, some ondel ondel figures had fearsome appearances, with dreadlocked hair and sharp teeth. These features were meant to scare away evil spirits, preventing them from disturbing the human world. Traditional rituals, including offerings and ceremonies, were also performed before ondel ondel appearances to ward off negative forces and embody philosophical reflections on life.
While the presence of ondel ondel performances has diminished in modern times, as younger generations gravitate toward films and bands for entertainment, these giant puppets remain a cultural fixture in Jakarta. Ondel ondel can still be seen during festivals, parades, and even as decorative pieces, serving as a reminder of the city’s rich cultural heritage.
(Raidi/Agung)
