<![CDATA[This study aims to analyze the historical, social, and symbolic meanings of the Ndrundru Tano Gadao megalith as a cultural identity of the people of Tuhemberua Village, West Nias Regency, and to identify the factors contributing to changes in the community’s understanding and appreciation, particularly among the younger generation, toward this tradition amid social dynamics and modernization. This study employed a descriptive qualitative method with historical and sociocultural approaches. Informants were selected using purposive sampling, involving traditional elders, customary leaders, village government officials, community members, and youth. Data were collected through observation, interviews, and documentation, and then analyzed using an interactive model consisting of data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawing and verification. The findings show that historically, Ndrundru Tano Gadao is associated with ancestral narratives, community migration, the process of carving the megalithic stone, and the formation of kinship structures and settlements. Socially, this tradition reflects the values of togetherness, mutual cooperation, solidarity, kinship, and customary order through the implementation of owasa. Symbolically, Ndrundru Tano Gadao represents respect for ancestors, power, honor, social status, and the collective identity of the people of Tuhemberua Village. Changes in the younger generation’s understanding and appreciation are influenced by modernization, developments in education and technology, the introduction of Christian teachings, and changing social and economic conditions.]]>
Copyrights © 2026
