Sanggar Chandra Aradhana: Preserving Arts and Culture in the Heart of Baturiti

With the slogan “Bayurasa”, Sanggar Chandra Aradhana emphasizes that every movement and work of art is not just a performance, but is born from a balance between energy (bayu) and feeling (rasa). Bayurasa means being powerful but still using feelings, so that every work of art has both strength and a gentleness that touches the heart. Sanggar Chandra Aradhana was founded by a group of art activists who care about the preservation of Balinese culture. Teachers, artists, and young people from the traditional village of Baturiti play an active role in the studio. They are not just members, but also an extended family who consider the studio their second home. The studio's rehearsals are held at the Balai Banjar Baturiti Tengah.

The studio's presence in the banjar hall brings it closer to the community, making it easier for children and teenagers to participate in arts and cultural activities. Baturiti itself is known as a beautiful area with the coolness of the mountains. This atmosphere provides positive energy and a supportive environment for arts and cultural activities. The presence of the studio in the heart of the traditional village makes it an integral part of community life, while reinforcing Baturiti's identity as a village rich in tradition. Sanggar Chandra Aradhana was officially established on April 14, 2017. Since then, the studio has become a consistent hub for artistic and cultural activities, producing high-quality works and performances. Along the way, this studio has also participated in various traditional events, piodalan ceremonies, and cultural festivals.

Trainer Chandra Aradhana Traditional Music Studio (Source: Personal Collection)

In the field of karawitan or gamelan, this studio is guided by a single master instructor, I Putu Susila Adi Pranata. His presence is crucial in maintaining the quality of the young musicians' playing. With his experience and dedication, every gamelan piece produced by the Chandra Aradhana Studio possesses power, precision, and a profound sense of beauty.

Chandra Aradhana Dance Studio Practice (Source: Personal Collection)

In addition, dance instructors and local community leaders also play an active role in guiding the younger generation so that they are not only skilled in dancing and drumming, but also understand the meaning behind each piece of art they perform. Thus, this studio is not only a place of learning, but also a center for shaping the character of a culturally aware younger generation.

Chandra Aradhana Traditional Music Studio Practice (Source: Personal Collection)

The Chandra Aradhana studio carries out its role through regular activities, such as dance and drumming practices held periodically at the Balai Banjar Baturiti Tengah. Children, teenagers, and adults can join and learn directly from experienced trainers. In each of its performances, the studio always brings the meaning of Bayurasa to life. Bayu symbolizes energy and strength, while rasa symbolizes feelings and gentleness. The two combine so that every dance movement and drumbeat not only has strong energy, but also touches the audience's feelings. This philosophy makes each of Sanggar Chandra Aradhana's works unique, full of character, and soulful.

Performance of Traditional Music Chandra Aradhana (Source: Personal Collection)

In addition to training, the studio also actively performs in various shows, both at the village level and in wider events. This participation is not only a form of existence, but also a means of introducing Balinese culture to the wider community. With the support of the Baturiti community, this studio has developed into an open space for creativity, rooted in tradition, yet still relevant to the times. Sanggar Chandra Aradhana is clear proof that art and culture are not only inherited but must also be nurtured wholeheartedly. Established on April 14, 2017, in Baturiti, this studio continues to shine a light on art with the slogan Bayurasa, a message that art must be born from a balance between energy and emotion. For the people of Baturiti, the presence of this studio is not merely an addition but also an identity that strengthens the village's cultural identity. And for the younger generation, Sanggar Chandra Aradhana is a space for learning, creating, and experiencing the true meaning of Balinese art and culture.