RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The Lenggang Nyai Dance is a traditional Betawi dance that originated in Jakarta. It is known for its agile and expressive movements, which depict the strong, independent, and courageous character of Betawi women.

The name "Lenggang Nyai" comes from two words: lenggang, meaning swaying, and nyai, referring to the lead female character in a story.

Dancer Wiwik Widiastuti created the Lenggang Nyai Dance in the late 1990s. It was inspired by the Betawi folktale of Nyai Dasimah, a woman who faces inner conflict and social pressures. Nyai Dasimah's story tells of a Betawi woman who becomes a mistress to a Dutch man. 

After the marriage, she must live a life full of rules and restrictions, struggling to regain her freedom. This theme of struggle is reflected in the dance's movements. The dance features dynamic body sways. These are combined with strong facial expressions that reflect feelings of joy, doubt, and firm determination.

This dance is accompanied by gambang kromong, a traditional Betawi music genre that blends local and Chinese cultural elements. Its cheerful, rhythmic nature supports the dance's lively, communicative atmosphere.

The Lenggang Nyai Dance is often performed at cultural events such as Betawi arts festivals, to welcome guests, and in traditional arts performances. It has become an icon of Betawi culture and is still preserved to this day.

Through the Lenggang Nyai Dance, the public is encouraged to appreciate the values of courage, independence, and women's freedom. In addition to being entertaining, the dance serves as a medium for preserving Betawi culture and folklore. (Misni Parjiati/Bambang MBKA)