MONOMAD | Tarek Pukat Dance in Black and White: Art |

The Tarek Pukat dance is a traditional dance from Aceh (Indonesia) that can be performed by several male and female dancers. A minimum of five dancers are required, as the intertwining of ropes symbolizes traditional fishing nets.

This dance was created by Yulizar, a choreographer, in 1958. Its original purpose was to enliven the Aceh Youth Congress. Essentially, the Tarek Pukat dance tells the story of traditional fishermen's fishing trade. The philosophy of Tarek Pukat embodies the struggle to earn a living, meet the family's nutritional needs, and the spirit of mutual cooperation.

I became deeply connected to this dance because, for over four months, I witnessed students from outside Aceh practicing diligently for their stage performance. They had never danced before, let alone heard or seen the Tarek Pukat dance. Sometimes, I joined the students in rehearsals under the patient guidance of a professional dancer.

The Tarek Pukat dance is a traditional Acehnese dance that depicts the activities of fishermen catching fish at sea. "Tarek" means "pukat" and "pukat" means fishing net. This dance reflects the spirit of mutual cooperation and the beauty of its movements, lyrics, and music.

At the Bantayan Festival, held at Banyatan Beach, Seunuddon, North Aceh (Indonesia), July 12-13, 2025, the Tarek Pukat dance was included in the competition, and I served as one of the judges. The participants were elementary school students from various schools in North Aceh.

Another dance in the competition was the Ranup Lampuan dance, which is a traditional welcoming dance in Aceh. On another occasion, I plan to post photos of the Ranup Lampuan dance in the #monomad photography community.

While judging, I photographed the young dancers on the main stage. Their movements were still awkward and stiff, not yet as flexible as professional dancers. However, judging by their agile movements, it seems they are very talented.

When photographing a dance featuring traditional attire, it's best to photograph it in full color to showcase the vibrant Acehnese traditional attire, which relies on primary colors like black, white, yellow, red, and green.

However, in the #monomad frame, the Tarek Pukat dance appears more exotic and natural, more reflective of traditional life. So, please enjoy this #monomad photo parade of the Tarek Pukat dance.

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