Story: Dayu, a singer who disguised herself as a man
Dayu (see her brief biographical page) was Ani Aia Angek’s mother. We know about her through Erlinda’s interview with Ani (2001:71-72). According to Ani, her mother was a talented singer, but she was “not a tukang dendang or professional padendang.” Nobody knew the name “Dayu” as someone that sang. According to Ani, her mother didn’t sing in any of the places known for saluang performances, limiting her participation to intimate settings in a private house with just a handful of people. She was not specifically invited nor was she paid for these appearances (we can surmise, therefore, that these are two markers of professional status), but she sang for the pleasure of her penggemar (devotees). Moreover, her appearance was made possible because her husband, Bujang Bagindo Marajo, was a tukang saluang and he would always accompany her. Finally, Dayu appeared dressed as a man. Erlinda suggests that this was an indication that Dayu knew it was not appropriate for a woman to sing in public at the time, but that she found a way that she was able to participate (Erlinda 2001: 71-72). Further evidence of this position could be taken in Dayu’s opposition and reluctance to her daughter, Ani, becoming a padendang (Erlinda 2001: 72).
Interpretation: This is a fascinating story. I wonder how successful Dayu was in her cross-dressing. Were fans oblivious or aware and brushed it off? At the very least, it speaks to ideas about gender roles within saluang and the lengths women needed to go to pass and participate at any level.
Resources- Erlinda 1999
- Erlinda 2001