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The cultural characteristics of sacrificial dance from the perspective of

the Belt and Road Initiative
——Take "Huduk Dance" and "Shigong Dance" as examples
【abstract】Huduk dance is one of the representatives of the traditional sacrificial dance of the
Dayak people in Indonesia, embodying profound cultural connotations. This article deeply explores
the origin and historical evolution of Huduk dance, the cultural symbols of dance movements,
costumes and props, and its connection with the Dayak religious beliefs. Originating from tribal life
and religious rituals, Huduk dance has evolved into a dance form rich in history through
generations. The unique movements, costumes and props in the dance carry rich cultural symbols
and reflect the Dayak people's understanding of nature, life and traditional values. In particular,
dance is associated with religious beliefs, making it an important ritual for communicating with
gods and expressing gratitude to the land and ancestors. The cultural characteristics of Huduk
dance not only show its deep historical roots in form, but also convey the religious emotions of the
Dayak people through dance movements and performance details. The simulated battles and
mythological stories in the dance not only promote the heroic spirit of the Dayak people, but also
pass on the religious tradition. The inheritance and development of this cultural characteristic has
made Huduk dance a living expression of Dayak culture, conveying deep respect for gods, nature
and traditional beliefs. Through the discussion in this article, we have a more comprehensive
understanding of Huduk dance as a treasure of Dayak culture and the important role it plays in
religious beliefs.
【Key words】Cultural characteristics of sacrificial dance along the Belt and Road

introduction
With the continuous advancement of globalization, cultural exchange and integration have
become one of the important features of today's society. In this context, the Belt and Road
Initiative, as a cultural road connecting Asia, Europe and Africa, provides a broader platform for
cooperation among countries. In this land of diverse ethnic groups and cultures, sacrificial dance,
as a form of traditional cultural expression, carries rich historical and cultural connotations. Huduk
Dance and Shigong Dance, as representative sacrificial dance forms, embody the cultural essence
of their respective regions and become a useful way to study the cultural characteristics of the Belt
and Road Initiative. When discussing the cultural characteristics of sacrificial dance from the
perspective of the Belt and Road Initiative, we focus not only on the form of dance movements,
but also on the cultural symbols, religious beliefs and social values behind them. As a collective
ritual performance, sacrificial dance usually integrates local religious rituals and traditional
customs, reflecting the community's identification with its own history and lifestyle. By deeply
exploring the cultural characteristics of sacrificial dances, we are expected to gain a more
comprehensive understanding of the cultural diversity and commonality of Belt and Road
countries. However, with the rapid development of modern society, sacrificial dances are facing
the challenges of loss and change in some areas. The cultural impact brought about by
globalization and the rise of new entertainment methods have caused some traditional forms of
cultural expression to gradually lose attention and support. Therefore, in-depth research on
sacrificial dance not only helps protect and inherit this precious cultural heritage, but also provides
a new entry point for cultural exchanges between countries.
one,Cultural background and current situation
(one)Multiculturalism in Belt and Road Countries
1.Sacrificial dance traditions of different countries
Sacrificial dance is a form of performance deeply rooted in the culture of various ethnic
groups. Different countries present unique styles in the tradition of sacrificial dance. For example,
Indonesia’s “Barong” dance symbolizes the confrontation between good and evil; China’s “Dragon
and Lion Dance” represents prayer and celebration; Egypt’s “Lakdash” dance expresses itself
through the dancer’s posture and movements. Respect for the gods. These diverse ritual dance
traditions carry the essence of local culture and reflect the rich histories and beliefs of each
country.
2.The status of Huduk Dance and Shigong Dance in the Belt and Road countries
Huduk Dance and Shigong Dance, as representative sacrificial dances in the Belt and Road
region, play a key role in cultural inheritance and exchange. Huduk dance originates from the
Dayak people in Indonesia. Through dance movements and mask design, it shows the Dayak
people's deep understanding of nature and religion. Shigong Dance is rooted in southern China
and is one of the traditional sacrificial rituals of the Dai people. Through concrete dance forms, it
shows the Dai people's gratitude for the land and life. Both dances hold a special place in their
respective countries, are the pride of cultural heritage, and are a vivid reflection of cultural
diversity.
(two)The development status of sacrificial dance
1.Factors affecting the inheritance of sacrificial dance
The inheritance of sacrificial dance is faced with the influence of many factors, which play an
important role in shaping the development status of sacrificial dance in today's society. The
cultural impact brought about by globalization and the rapid development of modern technology
have made new entertainment methods gradually dominate. Traditional sacrificial dances are
often challenged by the trends of the times. The younger generation is more inclined to be
exposed to modern forms of entertainment, leading to the marginalization of traditional culture.
The advancement of urbanization and industrialization has led to the exodus of people from rural
areas, which has also led to a gap in the inheritance of sacrificial dances in their native areas. The
lack of enough inheritors and the reduction of sacrificial dance venues in urban environments have
become important factors affecting the inheritance of traditional dance. The decline in social
recognition of traditional culture is also a challenge. In modern society, people's lifestyles have
undergone tremendous changes, and some traditional rituals and dances are considered outdated
and have lost widespread social recognition.
2.The status of sacrificial dance in contemporary society
Despite the many challenges it faces, ritual dance still occupies an important place in
contemporary society. First of all, as part of cultural heritage, sacrificial dance plays an
irreplaceable role in maintaining and inheriting national culture. It is a link between the past and
the present and a tribute to ancestors and land. Sacrificial dances still play a role in social rituals in
some areas. Whether celebrating a good harvest, praying for good weather, or paying homage to
the gods, these rituals, embodied through ritual dance, maintain community cohesion and identity.
Although sacrificial dance faces development resistance, it still has irreplaceable cultural value in
contemporary society and has made positive contributions to cultural diversity and the inheritance
of traditional culture.
two,Analysis of cultural characteristics
(one)Cultural characteristics of Huduk dance
1.Origin and historical evolution
Huduk dance is a traditional sacrificial dance of the Dayak people in Indonesia. Its origin and
historical evolution contain rich cultural connotations and are deeply rooted in the life and
religious beliefs of the Dayak people. The origins of dance are often rooted in tribal daily life,
religious rituals and reverence for natural phenomena, and are an integral part of the development
of Dayak culture. Through oral transmission from generation to generation, Huduk dance has
gradually evolved from a simple expression form into a complex and rich dance form, carrying and
recording the history, tradition and spiritual pursuit of the Dayak people. The origin of Huduk
dance can be traced back to the ancestors of the Dayak people. It is a collective form of expression
that may have originated from the daily activities and religious rituals of the tribe in the early days.
Over time, the dance gradually evolved, incorporating more sacrificial elements and religious
rituals, and became one of the important religious dances of the Dayak people. Historical changes
have allowed Huduk dance to be inherited and developed, absorbing different experiences and
concepts of tribes, and presenting multi-layered and diversified cultural connotations. In the long
historical evolution, Huduk dance has become one of the representatives of Dayak culture, passing
on the cultural memory of the ethnic group through dance. The movements, costumes and props
in the dance all carry profound symbolic meanings, reflecting the Dayak people's understanding
and pursuit of nature, religion and community. Therefore, the historical evolution of Huduk dance
is not only the development of a dance form, but also the continuation and inheritance of Dayak
culture.
2.Cultural symbols of dance moves, costumes and props
Huduk dance displays profound cultural symbols in dance movements, costumes and props,
making it a unique expression of Dayak culture. The dancers convey the Dayak people's unique
understanding of nature, vitality and war through their exquisite dance movements. The ups and
downs of the body, changes in gestures and the organic combination of footsteps constitute a
unique dance language, expressing awe of life and nature through this form. The costumes worn
by dancers play an important role in carrying cultural symbols in Huduk dance. These costumes are
not only decorations, but also vivid displays of the Dayak traditional patterns and tribal identity.
Each pattern and color represents a specific meaning and reflects the rich cultural connotation of
the Dayak people. This cultural symbol conveys the Dayak identity and traditional values to the
audience through the presentation of clothing. The masks and props used in Huduk dance are full
of mysterious and profound cultural symbols. The mask is not only a reverence for the gods, but
also a concrete representation of the Dayak traditional beliefs and spiritual world. The use of props
adds a sense of ritual to the dance, making the entire performance more mysterious and solemn.
Huduk Dance deeply integrates the cultural symbols of the Dayak people into the stage
performance through the careful design of dance movements, costumes and props, so that the
audience can appreciate the rich and unique cultural connotation of the Dayak people while
appreciating the dance.
3.The connection between Huduk dance and religious beliefs
Huduk dance, as a traditional sacrificial dance of the Dayak people, deeply integrates
elements of religious belief, intertwining dance with worship of gods. Dance performances are
often accompanied by religious ceremonies. Dancers communicate with gods through dance and
convey their devout respect for nature, land and ancestors. This integration reflects the Dayak
people's profound experience and respect for religious beliefs. In Huduk dance performances,
some specific dance moves and choreography may simulate battles or tell mythological stories.
Through these forms, dancers inherit and promote the heroic spirit of the Dayak people, while
integrating religious traditions into the artistic expression of dance. This connection not only makes
Huduk dance sacred in form, but also allows the audience to have a deeper understanding of the
religious culture of the Dayak people.
(two)Cultural Characteristics of Shigong Dance
1.Origin and evolution
Shigong Dance is a traditional sacrificial dance of the Dai people in southern China. Its origin
and evolution carry rich historical and cultural heritage. The origin of this dance is likely to be
closely related to the religious beliefs, farming activities and community life of the Dai people.
Over time, Shigong Dance has undergone many evolutions, from its initial simple expression to a
complex and ritualistic dance form, becoming a treasure of Dai culture.
2.cultural symbol of dance elements
The uniqueness of Shigong Dance lies in the profound cultural symbolism of its dance
elements. Various movements, gestures and expressions in dance carry rich cultural connotations.
The traditional patterns and costumes of the Dai people are displayed on the dancers. Each pattern
and color represents a specific meaning, such as awe of nature and respect for life. In addition, the
masks and decorations used in the dance are even more colorful. They are not only a tribute to the
gods, but also a tribute to the traditional values and ancestors of the Dai people.
3.Integration of Shigong Dance with local social life
Shigong dance does not exist in isolation, but is closely integrated with local social life. This
dance usually accompanies important events in the Dai community, such as harvest celebrations,
wedding ceremonies, etc. The Shigong Dance is not only an expression of sacrifice, but also a
symbol of community cohesion. In this dance, the Dai people jointly feel their attachment to land,
nature and society, strengthening the emotional connection between community members.
Various life scenes may be presented in the dance, such as farming, hunting, etc., making Shigong
Dance a mirror of Dai culture, reflecting their daily life and values.
three,"Huduk Dance" and "Shigong Dance"Analysis of cultural characteristics issues
(one)Problems faced by cultural inheritance
1.The impact of globalization on traditional dance
With the deepening of globalization, traditional culture is facing unprecedented impact, and
traditional dance is no exception. Modern thoughts, popular culture and digital entertainment
brought about by globalization have posed challenges to traditional sacrificial dance forms such as
Huduk Dance and Shigong Dance. The younger generation is more likely to be attracted by Western
pop culture and ignore the learning and inheritance of traditional dance. This kind of cultural
collision and conflict makes Huduk Dance and Shigong Dance face severe difficulties in the
inheritance process.
2.Cross-cultural integration and cultural dilution
Due to the exchange and integration between different cultures, the cultural characteristics of
traditional dance may be affected by blurring and dilution. In the process of cross-cultural
integration, some elements may be changed and adjusted to suit contemporary aesthetics and
audience tastes, causing the original cultural characteristics to gradually disappear. For dance
forms such as Huduk Dance and Shigong Dance that carry profound cultural symbols, this may lead
to the loss of their original essence and uniqueness.
(two)The dilemma of dance groups and inheritors
1.Lack of resources and brain drain
Dance groups and inheritors face serious resource shortages and brain drain problems during
the inheritance process. Since the performance of traditional sacrificial dance requires professional
training and a lot of rehearsal time, and resource investment is relatively limited, dance groups
may face problems of insufficient funds and insufficient venues. This limits the development of
dance groups and the smooth progress of inheritance work. At the same time, due to changes in
modern lifestyles, the younger generation may be more inclined to choose development in other
fields, leading to the loss of talent in dance groups and breaking the chain of inheritance.
2.Declining social acceptance of ritual dance
As social structures and values change, the social acceptance of ritual dances may gradually
decline. Modern society pays more attention to economic benefits and practical utility, while
traditional sacrificial dance may not directly produce obvious economic benefits in this regard. This
makes dance groups and inheritors face certain difficulties in seeking social support and
recognition. Lack of sufficient social recognition may lead to a greater shortage of resources such
as funds and venues, making the inheritance of sacrificial dances face greater difficulties.
4. Cultural characteristics of “Huduk Dance” and “Shigong Dance”Countermeasures
(one)Strengthen cultural education
1.Promote sacrificial dance through schools, communities and other channels
In order to better promote Huduk Dance and Shigong Dance in schools and communities, we
can take a series of measures to strengthen the cultural inheritance of sacrificial dances. In terms
of school education, special dance courses can be introduced to enable students to have a deeper
understanding of the rich history, profound significance and unique dance techniques of sacrificial
dance. This not only helps cultivate students' interest in ritual dance, but also provides a platform
for learning and inheritance for the younger generation. At the same time, the community is also a
key place for the inheritance of sacrificial dances. By organizing dance training classes and
workshops in the community, we can attract more young people to actively participate, thereby
expanding the heritage group. Such community activities can not only teach dance skills, but also
deeply interpret the cultural connotation of sacrificial dance, inspiring participants' love and
recognition of traditional culture. Through multiple channels such as schools and communities, we
can promote the inheritance of ritual dance on a wider scale. This not only helps the younger
generation better understand and inherit this unique cultural heritage, but also creates favorable
conditions for sacrificial dance to take on new vitality in contemporary society. Such efforts will
ensure that Huduk Dance and Shigong Dance can continue to shine in schools and communities,
adding to cultural heritage.
2.Formulate relevant policies to promote traditional education of sacrificial dances
In order to strengthen the traditional education of sacrificial dance, the government can take
a series of powerful policy initiatives. First, support and funding for sacrificial dance can be
increased in the field of culture and education to ensure that it is fully displayed and taught in
schools and other places. This could include providing schools with dedicated funding to organize
classes and performances of ritual dance, thereby integrating this traditional art form into
students' daily learning. Establish special funds for cultural activities to encourage dance groups to
conduct more performances and teaching activities in schools, communities and other places. This
helps to increase public awareness of ritual dance and creates more opportunities for inheritors to
demonstrate and teach. By organizing sacrificial dance competitions, cultural festivals and other
activities on various occasions, the government can promote more people to participate in and pay
attention to this traditional cultural form. Encourage dance groups to establish cooperative
relationships with schools and cultural institutions to jointly promote traditional education of
sacrificial dance. This cross-border cooperation helps integrate resources and improve the
influence and effectiveness of traditional education. Through policy support, an educational
environment more conducive to the inheritance of sacrificial dance can be created to ensure its
long-term inheritance in the future.
(two)Cultural exchange and cooperation
1.Promote cultural exchanges among countries along the Belt and Road
In order to deepen the spread of sacrificial dance on an international scale, we can take more
proactive measures, especially by promoting cultural exchanges between countries along the Belt
and Road. First of all, a special cultural exchange platform should be established to provide
opportunities for collaboration between artists and dance groups from different countries. Such a
platform can become a place for information sharing and creative collision, and promote the
international spread of sacrificial dance. By promoting close collaboration between artists and
dance groups, cross-border performance tours can be organized. This form not only allows
audiences in countries along the Belt and Road to have more direct contact with Huduk Dance and
Shigong Dance, but also helps establish a unique image of sacrificial dance on the international
stage. Performances can be combined with local cultural characteristics to enable the audience to
have a deeper understanding of the cultural connotations of Huduk Dance and Shigong Dance.
Organize international dance competitions, cultural festivals and other activities to attract dance
enthusiasts from Belt and Road countries. This diversified cultural exchange method not only
promotes interaction between artists, but also provides opportunities for sacrificial dance to win
wider recognition and popularity internationally. Through these efforts, we can expect sacrificial
dance to play a more important role in cultural exchanges between countries along the Belt and
Road, allowing its traditional and innovative charm to shine on a global scale.
2.Establish a transnational cooperation platform to promote the international spread of
sacrificial dance
By actively establishing a transnational cooperation platform, we can organically integrate
Huduk Dance and Shigong Dance into the larger framework of international cooperation, thereby
promoting the spread of this traditional dance internationally. First of all, we can establish close
cooperative relationships with dance groups and cultural institutions in other countries. By co-
planning cultural activities, dance programs, etc. with international partners, sacrificial dance will
be presented on a colorful international cultural stage. Establishing a transnational cooperation
platform will not only help promote the international spread of sacrificial dance, but also expand
the international influence of dance groups. By cooperating with cultural institutions in other
countries, the unique charm of Huduk Dance and Shigong Dance can be conveyed to a wider
range. This kind of international cooperation is not only a powerful interpretation of traditional
culture, but also a positive response to cross-cultural exchanges. In addition, establishing a
transnational cooperation platform will also help attract more international audiences to this
unique cultural form. By displaying sacrificial dance on the international stage, audiences from
different countries can have an in-depth understanding and appreciation of this cultural tradition,
thereby laying the foundation for sacrificial dance to win wider recognition internationally.
Through this series of powerful cooperative measures, we hope to spread the essence of Huduk
Dance and Shigong Dance further and inject more vitality into this traditional culture.
(three)Community Engagement and Cultural Preservation
1.Encourage community participation in the inheritance of ritual dances
Encouraging communities to actively participate in the inheritance of ritual dances is an
important part of ensuring that this cultural identity is protected and passed on. As the basis for
the inheritance of sacrificial dance, the community's participation is directly related to the survival
and development of this traditional art form. First of all, community groups for sacrificial dance can
be established and regular cultural activities can be organized to increase residents’ awareness and
interest in Huduk Dance and Shigong Dance. This form of community interaction helps to bring
dance performances closer to community life, allowing more residents to participate and develop a
strong interest in sacrificial dance. At the same time, the elders in the community are encouraged
to become teachers of dance skills and pass on their rich experience and knowledge to the
younger generation. Through this inheritance method, not only can the traditional skills of dance
be preserved, but also the younger generation of inheritors can be cultivated, so that sacrificial
dance can continue in the community. This intergenerational inheritance not only passes on skills,
but also conveys the essence of culture and promotes the unique values of sacrificial dance.
Extensive community participation provides a solid foundation for the inheritance of ritual dances.
Through the joint efforts of the community, sacrificial dance can be passed on to a wider social
level, forming a stronger cultural atmosphere and injecting vitality into the inheritance of this
traditional art.
2.Formulate cultural protection policies to ensure the inheritance and development of sacrificial
dances
 In order to ensure the inheritance and development of sacrificial dance, the government plays
a key role in cultural protection. Formulate special cultural protection policies and provide
necessary financial support to dance groups. This support can include sponsorship of cultural
events, provision of performance venues, and purchase of related equipment to ensure that ritual
dance has sufficient resources to support its inheritance activities. The government can set up a
special cultural protection agency to be responsible for supervising and promoting the inheritance
of sacrificial dances. Such an institution can organize cultural activities and seminars, promote
cooperation between different dance groups, and form a common inheritance strategy. At the
same time, the institution can also provide a platform for training and communication for
inheritors to improve their professional level. In order to stimulate the investment of inheritors,
the government can establish an honor and reward system to give corresponding honors and
rewards to individuals or groups who have made outstanding contributions in the inheritance of
sacrificial dance. This is not only an affirmation of the inheritors, but also can inspire more people
to devote themselves to the inheritance of sacrificial dance. To protect the originality and
uniqueness of ritual dances, the government should also formulate relevant laws and regulations.
These regulations can include copyright protection of dance works, statutory protection of
intangible cultural heritage, etc., to prevent external factors from adversely affecting sacrificial
dances.
five,in conclusion
In the context of globalization and modernization, sacrificial dance, as a treasure of
Indonesian culture, especially Huduk dance and Shigong dance, are facing unprecedented
challenges and opportunities as their unique cultural characteristics. Through this article's in-depth
analysis of its cultural characteristics, we realize the value and importance of traditional dance in
today's society. In order to protect and inherit this precious cultural heritage, we have proposed
countermeasures such as strengthening cultural education, promoting cultural exchanges and
cooperation, community participation and cultural protection. Strengthening cultural education
not only includes the school education system, but also requires the joint efforts of the community
and the government to spread the unique charm of Huduk Dance and Shigong Dance through
various channels. Cultural exchange and cooperation are effective means to promote this
traditional dance to the international stage. Through international cooperation platforms,
exchanges and integration between different cultures can be achieved. Community participation
and cultural protection are key links to ensure the inheritance and development of this traditional
art form in the local area, and require the joint efforts of community residents and the
government.
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