In Balinese dance, every movement tells a story yet the gestures alone do not speak the full language. The props carried by the dancers fans, kris, and umbrellas are not mere accessories but sacred symbols that hold layers of cultural and spiritual meaning. Each item embodies values that reflect the island’s way of life: harmony, balance, and devotion.
For travelers, understanding these details reveals the soul behind the beauty seen on stage. What hidden messages lie within these graceful objects?
Beyond Beauty: The Symbolic Language of Balinese Dance
Balinese dance is often admired for its vibrant costumes and intricate choreography, but its depth lies in the symbolism behind every element. The dancers’ eyes, hands, and steps follow precise codes and so do the objects they hold. Fans, kris, and umbrellas are not random stage decorations; they serve as extensions of the dancer’s spirit and the story’s essence.
Through these props, dancers embody emotions and moral values. A single flick of a fan can express shyness, power, or divine grace. The raised kris may signify courage in the face of chaos, while an open umbrella above the stage calls upon divine protection. These silent tools form a living language one that speaks of faith, discipline, and identity.
The Fan, Kris, and Umbrella: Symbols of Grace, Power, and Protection
Each prop in Balinese dance carries a unique meaning and purpose that connects deeply with the story being told.
The Fan (Kipas): Seen in dances such as Legong or Panyembrama, the fan represents elegance, refinement, and emotional control. It is often associated with feminine energy and beauty. When dancers wave or snap the fan, it mirrors the movement of the wind graceful yet powerful reminding audiences that true strength lies in poise.
The Kris (Keris): A sacred blade used in performances like Baris and Topeng, the kris symbolizes courage and protection. It embodies the spiritual energy of the warrior, a reminder that physical strength is inseparable from inner faith. The kris is treated with deep respect, believed to hold spiritual essence, and often blessed before performances.
The Umbrella (Tedung): Commonly used in temple ceremonies and ritual dances, the umbrella stands for shelter and divine guardianship. It represents the balance between the human and divine realms. The colors and ornaments of the umbrella also hold meaning white for purity, gold for prosperity, and red for strength.
Together, these objects transform the stage into a sacred space where every gesture becomes a prayer, and every movement tells a story of connection between the human and the divine.
The Deeper Philosophy: Balance Between Strength and Grace
Beyond their aesthetic purpose, these props reflect the Balinese philosophy of Rwa Bhineda the harmony between two opposing forces. The fan embodies softness and beauty, while the kris symbolizes might and protection; the umbrella unites them both under divine balance.
In every performance, this duality unfolds: strength without aggression, grace without fragility. The dancer learns to move within both energies, finding peace through discipline and unity through diversity. This principle mirrors the broader Balinese worldview, where art, ritual, and daily life coexist in perfect balance.
For travelers, witnessing these symbols on stage offers a glimpse into how Balinese people live their philosophy not through words, but through art in motion.
Discover Symbolism in Motion at Sawelas Nusantara
At Sawelas Nusantara , visitors can witness how these symbols come alive in every performance. The dancers’ fans flutter with precision, the kris glints under the light, and umbrellas rise like sacred guardians above the stage. Each performance celebrates the connection between artistry and spirituality that defines Bali’s living traditions.
Some shows at Sawelas even include interactive sessions, where visitors can learn about the meanings behind movements and props directly from the performers. It’s a rare opportunity to experience Bali’s culture not just as a spectator, but as a participant in its ongoing story.
📍 Location
Sawelas Nusantara at Bali Collection, Jl. ITDC Nusa Dua Lot BC, Benoa, South Kuta, Badung, Bali.
📅 Check our event schedule and experience the deeper meaning behind every Balinese performance.
Step into a world where every fan, kris, and umbrella carries a story discover the sacred harmony of Balinese dance