 |
| The Inspiring Story of Rayyan Arkan Dikha the Young Dancer Who Went Viral for His Performance at the Traditional Pacu Jalur Festival in Kuantan Singingi Riau. |
Recently, social media has been buzzing with the joyful and energetic dance of a young boy performing on a long traditional canoe during the famous pacu jalur festival in Kuantan Singingi, Riau, Indonesia. That boy is Rayyan Arkan Dikha, affectionately known as Dikha. With his fluid movements and contagious enthusiasm, Dikha captured the hearts of netizens not just in Indonesia but around the world.
His spontaneous dance on the bow of the canoe — locally known as a "jalur" — gained viral fame. Remarkably, top football players from elite clubs like Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and AC Milan, as well as Indonesian celebrities including Luna Maya, have recreated his iconic moves, praising his natural charisma and energy.
From a Small Village in Riau to Global Social Media Fame
Dikha is not a trained dancer. He is just an ordinary boy living in Pintu Gobang Village, Kari District, Kuantan Singingi Regency, Riau. Yet, from this modest background, he has emerged as a source of inspiration and admiration across digital platforms.
Currently a fifth-grade student at SD 013 Pintu Gobang, Dikha was born on December 28, 2014, and is now only 11 years old. Despite his young age, he exudes remarkable confidence and isn't afraid to express himself in front of large crowds.
His mother, Rani Ridawati, expressed her surprise and pride when her son's dance video went viral. “We’re so happy and proud. We never expected this,” she said with emotion.
Three Years of Dancing at the Pacu Jalur Festival
Dikha's dance debut didn't happen overnight. He has been performing on the bow of the canoe during the pacu jalur festival for the past three years. He frequently trains with his village’s race team, known as Tuah Koghi Dubalang Ghajo, the same team his father once raced with.
Each week, Dikha practices about three times, especially as race season approaches. His training involves more than just paddling — it includes maintaining balance and refining his signature dance at the front of the canoe, a role known locally as the ujung jalur or tip dancer.
Interestingly, Dikha never had formal dance lessons. “He doesn’t dance professionally. It’s all spontaneous. He learned by observing and participating at the pacu jalur,” his mother explained.
Talent Passed Down Through Generations
This natural talent seems to be inherited. His father, Jufriono (40), was also a seasoned pacu jalur athlete. In fact, he raced on the same canoe, Tuah Koghi Dubalang Ghajo, that Dikha now dances on.
His family has a long history of involvement in pacu jalur. “His father was a racer, and his uncles were too. It runs in the family,” said Rani.
Given this strong cultural and familial background, it’s no surprise that Dikha has a deep connection to the tradition. Many believe that he may one day follow in his father’s footsteps as a top racer.
Understanding the Pacu Jalur Tradition in Riau
For those unfamiliar, pacu jalur is a traditional canoe race held in Kuantan Singingi, Riau. These races are usually organized during significant national celebrations such as Indonesia’s Independence Day or other major cultural festivals.
Each canoe, or "jalur," holds dozens of paddlers. At the front, a child dancer performs energetic moves, motivating the team and symbolizing their spirit. This dancer is called the anak joki or front performer.
The role isn’t just decorative — the dancer energizes the crew and serves as the face of the team’s determination.
From Cultural Heritage to Viral Sensation
Dikha’s viral fame is a powerful example of how local culture can thrive in the digital age. A small but heartfelt performance can touch millions, making traditional arts visible and appreciated globally.
Social media users have widely praised his performance, citing his positive energy, cultural uniqueness, and authentic talent. Many content creators have recreated his dance as a tribute to Indonesia’s rich heritage.
A Role Model for Indonesian Children
Dikha’s story offers valuable lessons to children across Indonesia. It proves that one doesn’t need to be famous or grown up to make a meaningful impact. Genuine passion and courage can inspire many, even from the smallest village.
For parents, this story highlights the importance of nurturing their children's interests, no matter how small they seem. In Dikha’s case, family and community support played a big role in building his confidence.
Looking Toward the Future
With his passion and talent, many hope that Dikha will continue to grow — whether as a dancer, a racer, or in any other field he chooses. Some even urge local governments and cultural institutions to support gifted children like Dikha so their talents don’t fade away.
His mother humbly adds that her main wish is for Dikha to stay kind and happy. “We just want him to be a good person and do what makes him happy,” she shared.
Celebrating Culture Youth and Future Aspirations Through a Viral Dance from a Canoe
Rayyan Arkan Dikha’s unexpected rise to fame is more than a viral moment. It’s a symbol of living tradition, the power of self-expression, and the hopeful energy of Indonesia’s younger generation.
May his journey inspire more children to embrace their culture and be proud of their roots. And may more stories like his shine from the remote corners of the archipelago to the global stage.