Legal Concerns Arise After The Release of Bali’s ‘Joged Bumbung Jaruh’ Video

A video showcasing the Joged Bumbung Jaruh on 15th March 2024, a traditional Balinese dance, has sparked controversy due to movements deemed suggestive of pornography and inconsistent with the fundamental dance norms. 

Prof. Dr. I Gede Arya Sugiartha, Head of the Bali Culture Department, acknowledged the issue, stating that concerns regarding the dance have persisted since 2016. The Bali government has undertaken multiple initiatives to restore the dance to its authentic form, devoid of any pornographic elements.

 

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“We initiated a seminar to reinforce the traditional rules of joged (traditional dance); we invited the performers and engaged the Balinese Cultural Department,” stated Prof. Dr. I Gede Arya Sugiartha on Saturday, 16th March 2024. “We have assembled the dancers and provided clarification on the regulations for Joged Bumbung.”

Here are several initiatives undertaken by the Bali Cultural Department to address the Joged Bumbung Jaruh controversy:

• Training and educating Joged Bumbung dancers about their rights.
• Collaborating with relevant stakeholders to conduct supervision at nighttime entertainment venues.
• Promoting the growth of responsible and sustainable cultural tourism.

The Cultural Department is contemplating categorizing the Joged Bumbung Jaruh dance as a legal infringement under the Pornography Law due to its association with negative sentiments towards pornography. 

However, they are deliberating with legal experts on the ethical implications and considering the livelihoods of the artists involved before making a decision.

Get to Know About Joged Bumbung Jaruh, A Balinese Traditional Dance

The Bumbung Jaruh Joged dance, a traditional Balinese performance, originated in the Buleleng region around 1940 as a social activity for farmers during breaks from their barn work. 

However, over time, the dance evolved and took on more erotic elements, leading to a negative perception and objectification of female dancers. Historians and cultural experts note that the original dance was vastly different, adhering to traditional Balinese ethics and customs. 

Despite being banned by the Balinese government, it still occasionally appears at small-scale community events.

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