Wayang Thengul: A Heritage of Bojonegoro

Wayang is an authentic art of Indonesia that has been acknowledged around the world. It becomes a small part of many Indonesian cultures. One kind of Wayang is called Thengul. It is generally known as Wayang Thengul. It originally comes from Bojonegoro, small district in East Java. It has been a popular art in Bojonegoro since years ago. Wayang Thengul is made up of wood designed in a 3D shape. It is played with particular dress and characters.

Picture: Wayang Thengul

The history of Wayang Thengul is interesting to know. Some local inhabitants said it is created by Sumijan in 1930. The existence of it firstly functioned by artist, Dalang, as the instrument of making income. As the time goes by, it continuously develops and becomes a part of local entertainment in any occasion.

Wayang Thengul is different from Wayang Golek, a kind of Wayang originally comes from West Java. What makes them different is in the story and character performed. Wayang Thengul mostly performs the story of folktale such as Majapahit and Wali Sanga. Meanwhile,  Wayang Golek comes up with the story of such Mahabaratha and Ramayana. In any performances, Both of them are performed with strains of music called Gamelan.

Picture: Wayang Thengul

Recenty, the existence of Wayang Thengul is tragically going decrease. Young people is not interested in learning and preserve it. There is a need to collaborate between local government and artist to preserve and continuously introducing this heritage to young generation. If it is not, this “uniqueness” will definitely sink into a deep sea.

“Ansh”