“Jiwa” means “soul” in Indonesian and Javanese and is a word that describes the essence and inner spirit of a person or community. It represents the core aspect of the individual involved in the creative and artistic process of gamelan music. The “jiwa” encompasses the emotions, feelings, and passion that connects artists and listeners. In the context of the gamelan group, “jiwa” refers to the emotional and spiritual connection that music and dance evoke, as well as the personal enrichment and development achieved through the cultural experience.
The word “manunggal” can be translated as “united” or “together” and emphasizes unity and cohesion within the group and community. It's about merging individual talents and souls into a harmonious whole, creating a collective expression that is greater than the sum of its parts. This term reflects the foundation's mission to bring people together through the Javanese arts and to strengthen mutual ties.
When combined, “Jiwa Manunggal” illustrates the concept of souls coming together, forming a unity that transcends the depth of individual experiences and creates a collective experience. This concept embodies the vision of the Gema Rasa Foundation, where the echo of Javanese culture resonates in the soul of each individual and, through these individuals, forms a stronger, united community. The name suggests that by sharing these cultural practices, both the individual “jiwa” and the group as a whole can achieve a state of “manunggal” — a state of harmony and unity that reflects the power of culture to build bridges and unite hearts. So, “Jiwa Manunggal” is not only a name, but also a statement and an aspiration: an ongoing commitment to the core of the Javigal through music and dance. to reveal and share the spirit, and to weave it into the fabric of the community, creating a strong and resonant the whole thing is created that can stand the test of time.
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Bonang Penerus Player
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Saron Player
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Beijing Player/Sinden
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In the summer of 2024, Melissa Sokromo experienced a transformative journey to Indonesia, reconnecting with her ancestral roots through immersive dance and gamelan workshops, cultural exchanges, and the warm hospitality of the local community.
Ons team krijgt een uitbreiding met de toevoeging van een Raad en Adviescommissie. We zijn trots dat Henk Sariman en Stanlee Rabidin zich bij ons hebben aangesloten als adviseurs. Met hun expertise zullen zij ons begeleiden om buiten de gebaande paden te denken en onze missie verder te versterken.
In mijn leven vervul ik vele rollen: partner, moeder, hypnotherapeut en sinds enkele jaren ook de trotse voorzitter van Stichting Gema Rasa (SGR). Elk van deze rollen heeft me gevormd en geleid naar wie ik vandaag de dag ben, en hoe ik mijn verantwoordelijkheid binnen SGR invul.