Representation of Contemporary Balinese Women in the Symbol of Rangda: Perspectives from the Lontar Calonarang and Usadha Taru Premana through Ethnography

Abstract

This study examines the representation of women in Balinese culture through the symbols of Rangda and Usadha Taru Premana, which depict the duality of women's roles in Balinese society. The symbol of Rangda, found in the Lontar Calonarang, depicts women as strong and destructive figures who rebel against injustice. In contrast, the symbol in the Lontar Usadha Taru Premana depicts women as guardians of balance and healers, playing an important role in maintaining the physical and spiritual harmony of society. These two symbols reflect the complexity of Balinese women's identity, which is respected in both spiritual and social contexts but also viewed ambivalently in a patriarchal society. A qualitative, ethnographic case-study approach was used to explore the representation of women in both lontars, analysing data from interviews, observations, and documentation. The study's results show that the Rangda symbol reflects the destructive power of women who resist oppression. At the same time, Usadha Taru Premana depicts women as harmonious and respected figures. These two symbols depict the contrasting yet complementary roles of women in shaping their identities and positions in Balinese society. This study also reveals that although Balinese women are increasingly recognized across sectors, they still face obstacles to achieving full equality, especially in social and cultural contexts. Therefore, it is important to continue strengthening women's position and promoting gender equality in Bali.