The War Dances of Nias

Dance is a significant part of the unique culture of Nias, an island that is located 125 kilometers west of Sumatra and that for a long time was relatively isolated from the rest of the world. The best known are the war dances, which once were part of the rituals related to headhunting. Although headhunting has been banned since the 1930s, the people of Nias are still considered to be brave warriors and skilled hunters. The war dance performed today symbolizes getting ready for battle. It begins with the leader hollering in order to gather soldiers for a fight. 

Men dance in full battle gear, with spears, swords, and shields, imitating fighting techniques and jumping high. The passion of the dance is maintained by the hard rhythm of percussions on the one hand, and, on the other, the melodically expressive singing of the Nias women who surround the warriors.