History of Seudati Dance

Historically, this dance originally grew and flourished in Gigieh Village, Simpang Tiga District, Pidie District, Aceh, led by Tam Tam. This dance then began to develop in other areas, one in Didoh Village, Pearl District, Pidie District, led by Syeh Ali Didoh. As time went on, this dance then began to spread to other areas of Aceh, until now Seudati Dance has spread to all areas in Aceh.

Formerly this dance is also used by religious leaders as a medium of propagation in spreading Islam. However, during the Dutch colonial period this dance was banned. Because of the poetry sung in Seudati Dance is considered to foster the spirit for the youth of Aceh to rise can cause rebellion to the Dutch. After Indonesian independence, this dance was again allowed, not only as a medium of propaganda, but also often performed as a performance dance until now