Baris Keraras is a sacred dance tradition performed as part of the Aci Tulak Tunggul ritual at Taman Ayun Temple, Mengwi Village, Badung Regency, Bali. This study aims to examine the historical background, symbolic meanings, socio-religious functions, and eco-cultural values embedded in the Baris Keraras tradition. The research employs a qualitative ethnographic approach, with data collection techniques including participant observation, in-depth interviews, documentation, and literature review. The findings show that Baris Keraras functions not only as a ritual performance but also as a manifestation of Balinese local wisdom grounded in the Tri Hita Karana philosophy, which emphasizes harmonious relationships between humans and God, humans and other humans, and humans and the environment. The use of dried banana leaves (keraras) as ritual costumes represents ecological awareness and symbolizes purity, while the dance performance strengthens collective memory, social solidarity, and the sustainability of the subak irrigation system. This tradition also plays an important role in strengthening the cultural resilience of Balinese society amid pressures of modernization and globalization. This study highlights the importance of preserving traditional performing arts as intangible cultural heritage as well as a source of cultural education and reinforcement of local identity.
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