Dikir Hulu: Origin, Development and Role in Lyrics

Abstract

The objectives of this research were to study Dikir Hulu through the origin, the development, the characteristics and the roles of lyrics toward three southern bordered provinces. The study was conducted via a qualitative method. The field data collected and the literature were also reviewed for the research analysis. The findings were that Dikir Hulu was an originally ritual musical cure for the patients who were threatened by spirits. Dikir Hulu was once called Dikir-Awal, Dikir-Awa, or Dikir-Or. It was comprised of varieties of cultures: Hindu-Java, Java –Malayu, and Islam. Later the objective of the song was changed from cure to entertainment and that Dikir-Hulu was named since then. Dikir-Hulu bands were created to perform in the celebrating occasions. The lyrics were depended on the society, politics, singers and performance. According to the research findings, Dikir-Hulu were divided into 5 periods of Origin, Separation Assimilation, Cultural Immigration, Seven Counties, and Entertainment. Each band has its own styles in singing, dancing, musical instruments and costumes. There are two types of performances. The first is a dual show which is the original one. The second is a single show which is developed to satisfy the audience. The research was also found that Dikir-Hulu has the role in lyrics toward three southern bordered provinces as entertainment, education, social control, self relief, local cultural conservation, natural resources, and also a mass media channel.