More Than Just Parade, Gunungkidul Cultural Carnival Becomes A Form Of Indonesian Love

One of the participants of the cultural carnival in the framework of the 80th Anniversary of Indonesian Independence in Gunungkidul Regency, Yogyakarta Special Region. (ANTARA)

Cultural Carnival is one of the most lively ways to celebrate the 80th Anniversary of the Independence of the Republic of Indonesia in Gunungkidul Regency, DIY.

Not only people's parties, this celebration is also a stage to showcase the richness of local art and culture while at the same time fostering a sense of love for the homeland in the community.

The Deputy Regent of Gunungkidul, Joko Parwoto, emphasized that this carnival has a much deeper meaning than just a parade.

"The spirit of cultural arts is not just a parade or performance, but a manifestation of our love for the homeland through the richness of culture and art that we have," he said while attending an event in Panggang District, as quoted by ANTARA.

He gave his appreciation to the committee, sub-district government, and residents who had prepared this event with enthusiasm. Seven urban villages participated in the procession, displaying a variety of dances, tetabuhan, and traditional clothes that amazed the audience.

For Joko, every art movement, music, and costumes on display is not just a spectacle, but a symbol of the power of the community.

"Weapons to fight forget, reject divided understandings, and show the world that Indonesia is a great nation with a justuhung civilization," he said.

He also emphasized the importance of cultural carnivals as an effort to build national character, especially in inviting the younger generation to participate in preserving tradition.

"Don't just preserve the form of art, but also the noble values contained in it such as mutual cooperation, decency, courage, and togetherness," he added.

This Carnival is not only an interesting spectacle, but also proof of the spirit of mutual cooperation and people's love for local culture. In the moment of independence, this event also strengthens the unity and strengthens the identity of the nation which is rich in tradition.