Hand gestures and hidden meanings: Exploring the semiotics of Balinese legong dance

Journal of Language, Literature, Social, and Cultural Studies, Volume 3 Number 3 (Nov 2025), p. 315-331 e-ISSN: 2986-4461 DOI: https://doi.org/10.58881/jllscs.v2i2 https://ympn.co.id/index.php/JLLSCS Hand gestures and hidden meanings: Exploring the semiotics of Balinese legong dance Made Ayu Risma Dewi Adnyani1, I Ketut Suarja2, I Putu Budiarta3 Politeknik Negeri Bali, INDONESIA1,2,3 Abstract - The primary aim of this study is to analyse the layers of symbolism embedded in the Legong dance of Bali. Rather than seeing Legong as simply “traditional dance,” this research investigates its deeper meanings—particularly how gestures, facial expressions, and costume are entwined with cultural myth and identity. The study also seeks to understand how these symbolic forms maintain cultural relevance for Balinese communities in contemporary times. Data collection involved observing Legong performances both live in Bali and through online recordings, ensuring a broad perspective on variations and consistencies. Semistructured interviews were conducted with dancers, instructors, and cultural practitioners, focusing on how symbolism is taught, experienced, and understood. Informal participation in dance workshops provided an insider’s perspective on the embodied aspects of Legong symbolism. Detailed field notes were maintained, complemented by informal conversations that sometimes occurred in less formal settings like temple grounds. Every movement—from a delicate hand flick to intense, controlled eye movements—serves as a signifier within Balinese storytelling. Dancers are trained to communicate complex narratives about deities, conflict, courtship, and heroism through nonverbal cues. The use of ornate costumes, heavily jewelled headdresses, and vibrant fabrics reinforces the mythic quality of the characters portrayed. Even details like finger extensions and golden crowns contribute to the representation of supernatural or historical figures. Symbolism in Legong is sustained via a mixture of formal instruction and communal participation. Keywords: Legong dance, symbolism, movement, semiotics, cultural heritage, preservation 1. Introduction Culture is, without a doubt, the bedrock of human society. It shapes identity, fosters communication, and promotes social cohesion among its members. Within the Indonesian archipelago, Bali stands apart as a region boasting remarkable depth and diversity in its cultural heritage. Among its most vibrant traditions lies the realm of dance—an artistic expression that also functions as a vehicle for ritual, social connection, and the transmission of ancestral values (Eiseman, 2011). One particularly iconic dance form is Legong, a classical Balinese dance that epitomizes grace, discipline, and technical complexity. The name “Legong” blends the root “legyang,” meaning flexible or elastic, with “gong,” referencing the traditional Balinese gamelan instrument. This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY) license (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/) 315 Journal of Language, Literature, Social, and Cultural Studies, Volume 3 Number 3 (Nov 2025), p. 315-331 e-ISSN: 2986-4461 DOI: https://doi.org/10.58881/jllscs.v2i2 https://ympn.co.id/index.php/JLLSCS Consequently, Legong may be interpreted as a dance marked by flexible, graceful physical movement that is intricately linked to the rhythms of gamelan accompaniment (Wijanarko, 2023). Historically, Legong’s roots can be traced back to the 19th century and the opulent courts of Bali. As recorded in the Babad Dalem Sukawati, Legong originated from a dream vision experienced by King Dewa Agung Made Karna of Sukawati. Inspired by the sight of two celestial maidens dancing, the king commissioned the creation of masks and choreography to bring the vision to life. This formative version, known as Sang Hyang Legong, would eventually evolve into Legong Keraton, the courtly refinement of this art (Wijanarko, 2023). Traditionally, Legong is performed by pre-adolescent girls who undertake rigorous physical and artistic training from an early age. Hallmarks include highly articulated finger movements, expressive eyes, precise footwork, and elaborate facial expressions. The dance is almost always accompanied by the Gamelan Semar Pagulingan, a melodic and ceremonial ensemble beloved for its rich, nuanced sound (Ubud.id, n.d.). While Legong’s origins are linked to royal palaces, the art form has spread widely—performed now in temples, public festivals, and for both local and international audiences. Despite its deep significance, Legong faces substantial obstacles in the present era. Forces such as globalization, rapid societal shifts, and diminishing interest from younger generations threaten its continuity. Moreover, as the dance is featured increasingly for tourists, it risks a loss of authenticity and depth, potentially losing touch with its spiritual and artistic roots (Picard, 1990). This situation requires a careful re-examination of Legong’s philosophical, historical, and sociocultural foundation to ensure its vitality and relevance in contemporary cultural life. This study carries significance for several interrelated reasons: cultural preservation, Artistic Appreciation and Educational Value, Modern Relevance and Adaptation, Sustainable Cultural Tourism, and Strategy Formulation for Preservation. • Cultural Preservation o Legong embodies both the cultural and spiritual values of Balinese society. o By analysing its symbolic meanings, philosophical aspects, and artistic techniques, this research aids in the long-term preservation of an essential facet of Indonesia’s intangible cultural heritage. o Understanding Legong’s deeper meanings supports efforts to maintain and transmit Balinese culture to future generations. • Artistic Appreciation and Educational Value o Detailed study of Legong’s choreography, mudras (hand gestures), costumes, and musical accompaniment provides instructive resources for artists, teachers, and students in the performing arts. o Such documentation supports not only appreciation, but also the practical training and development of future practitioners. • Modern Relevance and Adaptation o Examining Legong’s historical evolution and contemporary adaptations reveals pathways for traditional art forms to maintain relevance amidst changing societal realities. o This research explores how Legong navigates modern influences—balancing innovation with reverence for tradition. • Sustainable Cultural Tourism o Legong, alongside other Balinese dances, is a central attraction for cultural tourism. o This study assesses ways in which Legong can promote sustainable tourism—where community benefit coincides with preservation of cultural authenticity. o By learning from current practices, strategies can be devised to prevent the commodification and superficial presentation of Balinese dance. 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