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Gendang Beleq is a traditional musical ensemble from the Sasak people of Lombok, Nusa Tenggara Barat, renowned for its large drums, known as "gendang beleq". “Gendang” means drums and “Beleq” means big, which translates “gendang beleq” to "big drum" in the Sasak language. Gendang Beleq is commonly performed during weddings, ceremonies, and festivals, symbolizing unity and celebration. Historically, however, this ensemble played a pivotal role in wartime communications. The big drums are traditionally made from wood, with the body carved from a tree trunk to create a hollow chamber that can amplify the sound when struck. The drumheads are made from the skin of animals like goats or cows, stretched tightly over the wooden frame. The skin is carefully treated and mounted to ensure it produces a deep, resonant sound. In addition to the gendang, the other instruments like gongs, cymbals are typically made from metal and wood, while the flutes are made from bamboo or wood. These instruments complement the gendang, creating the lively, rhythmic sound that defines Gendang Beleq performances. In the past, Gendang Beleq was used during battles as a tool for communication. Its powerful beats not only helped coordinate the warriors but also gave them courage, fostering a sense of unity as they fought. The music sent messages across the battlefield, with different rhythms signaling commands. After the battles, the drums were played to welcome the warriors home and celebrate their bravery. Today, Gendang Beleq is performed at ceremonies like weddings and traditional rituals. The music, which combines the sounds of drums, flutes, cymbals, and gongs, creates a lively and festive atmosphere. Performers wear colorful traditional clothes and move in sync with the music, making it a visual and musical treat. Gendang Beleq is more than just entertainment. It represents unity and pride for the Sasak people. Many efforts are being made to keep this tradition alive through festivals, cultural events, and lessons for younger generations. This big drum continues to tell the story of the Sasak people and their rich history.
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TGKH Muhammad Zainuddin Abdul Madjid, also known as Maulana Syaikh, is one of the most prominent Ulama of his time and an Indonesian national hero from Nusa Tenggara Barat. He is also an Islam scholar and a teacher as well. Born on April 20th, 1908, in Pancor, East Lombok, in a family that was deeply rooted in Islamic traditions. Since he was a little boy, his father instilled an abiding love for the Quran and classical Islamic texts. At age 15-year-old, Maulana Syaikh began a 12-year-transformative education in Mecca at the prestigious Madrasah al-Shaulatiyah. He pushed through the nine-year curriculum in six years. After accomplishing his studies, he returned to Lombok, Indonesia in 1934, where he quickly laid the foundation to build an Islamic boarding school called Pesantren al-Mujahidin. He established Pesantren al-Mujahidin to nurture Islamic knowledge and patriotism among the youth. In 1937, he established Madrasah Nahdlatul Wathan Diniyah Islamiyah (NWDI) for boys, and in 1943 he established Madrasah Nahdlatul Banat Diniyah Islamiyah (NBDI) for girls. These institutions challenged conventional norms, especially by advocating for female education. This was the foundation for Nahdlatul Wathan (NW), an Islamic organization founded in 1953, which stood at the frontline for movements in education and social reform in Lombok. Beyond education, Zainuddin supported Indonesia’s fight for independence. He formed a local militia, named Laskar al-Mujahidin, that fought Dutch troops. He was also an influential political and spiritual leader who served in the Constituent Assembly (Majelis Konstituante) and advised the Majelis Ulama Indonesia (MUI). His extensive works, ranging from religious texts to poetry, demonstrate his commitment to living Islamically. To his followers, some of his works, such as Risâlah at-Tauhîd and Hizib Nahdlatul Wathan, are still fondly remembered till this day. TGKH Muhammad Zainuddin Abdul Madjid, passed away on October 21, 1997, he left behind a legacy to education, resilience, and faith. The Indonesian Government recognized him by giving him the title of a National Hero in 2017, honoring his patriotism and efforts in spreading knowledge.