Grassroots Families Anchor Bali’s Cultural Preservation, Activist Urges Stronger Government Support

BADUNG, Bali – The level advancement examination of Semara Duta Dance Studio, held at Pura Desa lan Puseh Padang Luwih on Sunday (February 15, 2026), was more than a routine artistic evaluation. Behind the graceful movements of 162 young dancers from Denpasar and Badung lay a broader social portrait of who truly sustains Bali’s cultural heritage.

Since early morning, the temple courtyard was filled with parents accompanying their children. Rows of motorcycles lined the parking area, helmets hanging from mirrors, costume bags carried modestly by hand. There were no convoys of luxury cars. Yet within that simplicity stood a powerful commitment to keeping Balinese tradition alive.

A.A. Gede Agung Aryawan, S.T., Secretary of the NGO Arun Bali—widely known as Gung De—described the scene as a clear reflection of the grassroots social structure supporting traditional dance preservation. He noted that most participating families come from lower- to middle-income backgrounds.

“On average, it is the lower-middle communities who are the most enthusiastic about preserving Balinese culture. If possible, funding support should be directed more toward them,” Aryawan said on the sidelines of the event.

According to him, dance studios should not continue to rely solely on participant contributions. The cost of traditional Balinese costumes, accessories, and makeup for performances can be significant for families with limited income. Despite these financial pressures, parents consistently pay monthly fees and ensure their children attend rehearsals.

Aryawan contrasted the scene with other events often attended by upper-income groups. “At certain events, luxury cars are lined up. Here, the parking lot is dominated by motorcycles. That is already a clear social indicator,” he remarked.

The examination, which has been held approximately 12 times, demonstrates the studio’s sustained commitment to nurturing young talent. This year, 62 participants came from Denpasar and 100 from Badung, indicating continued interest among the younger generation in Balinese dance.

However, Aryawan stressed that long-term sustainability requires structural backing. Without regular subsidies or institutional assistance, studios risk being affected when participating families face economic hardship. Artistic activities are often the first expenses to be reduced when household finances tighten.

He urged local governments to provide concrete support, ranging from subsidies for dance instructors and costume assistance to periodic development funding. “At the very least, there should be financial support for dance teachers or semester-based assistance so the burden on the community is not too heavy,” he said.

Meanwhile, modern large-scale events with substantial sponsorship and elaborate facilities continue to flourish. While such developments are not inherently problematic, the reality that traditional arts—central to Bali’s identity—largely depend on modest-income families raises questions about policy priorities.

On the temple grounds, the children performed without awareness of the financial sacrifices made behind the scenes. Smiles and applause accompanied each appearance. Offstage, careful household budgeting ensures studio fees are paid and costumes remain presentable.

Ultimately, the Semara Duta examination was not merely a technical assessment of dance skills. It also served as a mirror reflecting disparities in support for traditional culture. If Bali is to remain steadfast as an island defined by its cultural heritage, sustained investment at the studio level is indispensable.

Among the rows of parked motorcycles and carefully prepared costumes lies a simple message: Balinese culture endures because of the resilience of its people. The public now awaits whether policy support will rise to match that enduring spirit.

Editor: Ray