Nestled amidst the lush rice paddies of Ubud, Tanah Gajah is a resort that celebrates the rich cultural heritage of Bali. Here, guests are treated not only to stunning scenery and luxurious accommodations, but also to a glimpse into the lives of the people who make Bali so special.

Today, we meet Ni Wayan Ega Jelita, or 'Gek Ega' as she's known to her friends and family, a Kecak dancer who brings the Ramayana epic to life with her captivating performances.

 

By day, Gek Ega's world revolves around nurturing young minds. A graduate of Hindu State I Gusti Bagus Sugriwa Denpasar University, she finds joy in her role as a toddler teacher at Tirta Alam Bali school. But come Saturday, she transforms into a guardian of Balinese tradition, teaching children at SDN 2 Kemenuh the graceful movements of Puspanjali, Pendet, and other classical dances.

 

This dedication to cultural preservation extends beyond her own artistic pursuits. Gek Ega has been captivating audiences with her Kecak performances for the past two years, although her love for dance goes back much further.

"I've been dancing since I was in kindergarten," she says, a hint of nostalgia in her voice.
"In Bali, dance is a part of our education, and it has always been a part of my life."

 

For those unfamiliar with Kecak, it's a mesmerizing spectacle that unfolds under the Balinese twilight. A chorus of male dancers, their voices forming a rhythmic chant, narrate the timeless tale of Ramayana. Gek Ega often takes on the role of Sita, the virtuous wife of Prince Rama, embodying her resilience and unwavering spirit.

 

"The most important part is to truly become the character. To express the emotions – sadness, joy, anger – in a way that transports the audience into the story." she explains

This ability to connect with the audience comes naturally to Gek Ega. But it wasn't always so effortless.

"The first time I performed Kecak," she recalls with a laugh, "there wasn't much preparation time. It was quite sudden, really! But with each performance, I learn and improve."

 

Gek Ega's passion for dance extends beyond the stage.

"It's important for us, the younger generation, to learn and preserve our traditions," 
"Dance is a big part of what makes Bali so special, and it's something we should all be proud of."


Nurturing Young Talent at SDN 2 Kemenuh

SDN 2 Kemenuh goes a step further in fostering cultural appreciation. Every Saturday morning, students are offered a variety of extracurricular activities designed to introduce them to Balinese heritage.





These include playing chess, learning the intricacies of various Balinese offerings, and exploring their creativity through drawing, coloring, and painting. Students choose an activity for a semester, immersing themselves in that particular art form before selecting a new one for the next semester. This innovative program ensures a well-rounded education that incorporates both academic pursuits and cultural exploration.













Experience the Magic of Kecak at Tanah Gajah

If you're looking for an authentic Kecak experience in Ubud, look no further than Tanah Gajah. Every Tuesday and Friday at 19:00,  guests are invited to witness this mesmerizing performance, held amidst the resort's beautiful grounds as the sun dips below the horizon. The evening culminates in a fire dance, adding an element of drama and spectacle.







Following the performance, indulge in a Royal Balinese Dinner at The Tempayan restaurant. Savor a curated selection of traditional dishes, each bursting with flavor, as you recount the captivating story you just witnessed. Ranked among the top 3 Kecak dance performances in Bali on Google, Tanah Gajah offers an unforgettable experience that blends cultural immersion with culinary delight.

Book your Kecak & Fire Dance experience with Royal Balinese Dinner at Tanah Gajah today, and discover the magic of Balinese culture.