Jurnal Kajian Bali
Vol. 15 No. 3 (2025): Identity in Contemporary Bali

Negotiating the Third Space: Islamic Performing Arts and Cultural Diplomacy Between Muslim Minorities and Royal Patronage in Bali

Sariada, I Ketut (Unknown)
Gunadi Putra, I Gede (Unknown)
Rahiminejat, Rahim (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
05 Dec 2025

Abstract

In Bali, Islamic performing arts have long bridged relations between Muslim minority communities and the puri royal courts, shaped by trade, intermarriage, and mutual coexistence. This study examines Rodat as a medium of social interaction and identity negotiation in Kepaon, Denpasar, and Puri Agung Pemecutan, with comparisons from other regions in Bali. Using a qualitative ethnographic approach that combines observation, interviews, and document analysis, the research traces the historical, symbolic, and political dimensions of these practices. The findings show that Rodat and other Islamic performances serve dual functions: preserving Muslim identity while legitimizing palace authority, creating a third space that enables coexistence without forced assimilation. This space functions as a mechanism of interfaith diplomacy, reinforced through rituals, mutual recognition, and cultural patronage. In doing so, this study advances theoretical understanding by demonstrating how Bhabha’s ‘third space’ can be institutionalized through traditional patronage, enabling coexistence without assimilation.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

kajianbali

Publisher

Subject

Religion Arts Humanities Languange, Linguistic, Communication & Media Social Sciences

Description

The Jurnal Kajian Bali (Journal of Bali Studies) is an area study journal that specializes in publishing research-based articles about Bali. The topics of articles about Bali that can be published are very diverse including Balinese culture, politics, music, language, architecture, literature, ...