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Ratu Dini Andhiyani Seminingrat, affectionately known as Dini, is a dedicated traditional dance artist from Cirebon. She has proven herself not only as an outstanding performer in traditional dance but also as a leader and founder of the Sanggar Seni Tari Sawo Kecik, which plays a crucial role in preserving and developing traditional Cirebonese dance.
Dini was born to Prince Muhammad Ilan Seminingrat, a civil engineer by profession and an architect, and Maemunah Asmoro, a housewives. Prince Muhammad Ilan Seminingrat had royal lineage as a descendant of Sultan Sepuh IV Amir Sena Muhammad Jaenudin, who was in turn descended from Syeikh Syarif Hidayatullah. Dini was born in Surabaya, but her interest and passion for traditional Cirebonese dance were evident from an early age, even when she was still in kindergarten.
During her childhood, Dini grew up in the rich cultural environment of Keraton Kasepuhan Cirebon. Her parents, who were nobles of Keraton Kesepuhan Cirebon, provided her with education that shaped her into a royal princess with not only dance skills but also a deep understanding of customs and palace traditions. Her father, Prince Muhammad Ilan Semiringrat, an artist himself, passed down the artistic legacy to her. She was raised in this environment, which served as a source of inspiration and valuable knowledge in developing her skills and understanding of traditional Cirebonese dance.
After completing her Bachelor’s degree in Law, which was related to customary law, at a university in Cirebon, Dini’s talents extended beyond just performing traditional dance. During her college years, she actively participated in dance performances in various regions of Cirebon and beyond. Her expertise in traditional Cirebonese dance led her to perform in various palaces across Indonesia, earning her a respected place in the world of traditional arts.
In 2016, Dini founded the Sanggar Seni Tari Sawo Kecik, a significant step in her efforts to preserve traditional Cirebonese dance. This studio served not only as a practice space for Dini and her students but also as a platform to introduce and teach traditional dance to the younger generation. Dini enthusiastically taught the basic techniques and the philosophy behind each Cirebonese traditional dance in this studio.
Apart from being a teacher at the studio, Dini was actively involved in various cultural and artistic activities in Cirebon. She participated in dance performances and cultural events in the region. As a result, Dini played not only the role of a guardian of traditional Cirebonese dance but also a cultural ambassador promoting the richness of Cirebonese art and culture to various parts of Indonesia. In addition to dance, Dini also possessed skills in organizing traditional and cultural events at Keraton Kasepuhan Cirebon, such as preparing the Panjang Jimat ceremony.
Dini’s success in preserving traditional Cirebonese dance has garnered recognition and appreciation from various quarters. Her significant contribution in teaching, developing, and preserving Cirebonese traditional dance has made her a highly influential cultural figure in Cirebon.
Throughout her career as a traditional Cirebonese dance artist, Dini has continually strived to inspire and involve the younger generation in preserving this valuable cultural heritage. Through her dedication, traditional Cirebonese dance continues to thrive, bringing pride to the people of Cirebon and preserving the rich and diverse cultural identity of Indonesia. Dini is a true example of how an artist can become a guardian and preserver of a valuable cultural heritage for future generations.