Bedhaya Anglirmendhung, a Sacred Dance at Mangkunegaran: The Study of Aesthetic Authority and Characteristics

Bedhaya Anglirmendhung dance is considered a sacred heirloom in Mangkunegaran. Resembling Bedhaya Ketawang in Kasunanan Surakarta Palace and Bedhaya Semang in Kasultanan Yogyakarta Palace, both used as symbols of royal power, Bedhaya Anglirmendhung has distinct differences. This article aims to describe the presentation style of Bedhaya Anglirmendhung in Mangkunegaran to provide insights into its unique characteristics. The research is essential in revealing Mangkunegaran's aesthetic authority in artistic creations, particularly in sacred dances considered as cultural heirloom. Employing a qualitative approach with ethnokoreological methods, a comparative study is used to understand the characteristics of Bedhaya Anglirmendhung, showcasing Mangkunegaran's aesthetic authority. The findings indicate that Mangkunegaran's aesthetic authority influences the presentation style of Bedhaya Anglirmendhung, executed through policies issued by Mangkunegara VIII and continued by Mangkunegara IX to reconstruct the long-neglected dance. Through this authority, Mangkunegaran can creatively manage its sacred dances, showcasing distinctive characteristics. These characteristics serve to express the identity and prestige of Mangkunegaran as a principality with the authority to oversee its dances.