Orahua and Daro-Daro: Representation of the Cultural Identity of Nias People, North Sumatra, Indonesia

Abstract

Orahua is an oral tradition in the form of traditional deliberations of Nias people, while daro-daro is a stone chair of architectural works from the megalithic era where the oral tradition of orahua is held. The existence of orahua and daro-daro is weakening as the authority of indigenous governments declines in the face of a formal system of government strengthened by the state. This research examines the survival and change of the existence of orahua and daro-daro. It employs a qualitative approach as a research methodology. Data collection involves observations of the traditional event and in-depth interviews of the participants.It is noted that orahua and daro-daro is diminishing as a practice due to various factors. Efforts to preserve orahua are carried out by adapting in line with socio-cultural changes that occur. The community maintains the exclusivity of daro-daro as a historical architectural work while maintaining its sacredness as a place for carrying out orahua rituals. Preservation of orahua depends on the tradition to continue to function amid leadership dualisms. It is also noted that orahua and daro-daro represent the cultural identity of the Nias people and the survival of orahua and daro-daro supports the preservation of the cultural identity of the Nias people.