Introduction

The Dikir Barat was formerly song of fishermen. It was sung in groups by fishermen to the sounds and rhythms of paddling oars to soothe away tired limbs and waning spirits in their quest for God's bounties on this earth. The words of the song are sprinkled with humour, light teasing and bantering, expressing fishermen's grief and happiness; the pains beside joys of life. The dikir barat is created from the calming melodies of the song tries to capture these scenes and feelings through movements and expressions of its graceful presentation.