Indonesian culture

Indonesian culture has been shaped by long interaction between original indigenous customs and a few foreign influences. Indonesia is central along ancient trading routes between Far East and Middle East [citation needed], so many cultural practices are highly influenced by many religions, including Hinduism, Buddhism, Confucianism and Islam, all strong in the towns main trade . The result is a complex cultural mixture very different from the original indigenous cultures.
Examples of cultural fusion include the fusion of Islam with Hindu in Javanese belief Abangan, fusion of Hinduism, Buddhism and animism in Bodha, and the fusion of Hinduism and animism in Kaharingan, others can be cited.

Indonesian art-forms express this cultural mix. Wayang, traditional theater-performed puppet shows, the media in the spread of Hinduism and Islam among the Javanese villagers. Both Javanese and Balinese dances have stories about ancient Buddhist and Hindu kingdoms, while other forms of Islamic art and architecture are present in Sumatra, especially in the Minangkabau and Aceh. Traditional arts, music and sports are combined in the form of martial art called Pencak Silat.
Western culture has greatly affected Indonesia in the modern entertainment such as television shows, movies and music, as well as political systems and issues. India has been influenced mainly Indonesian songs and movies. Popular types of Indian songs are rhythmical dangdut, which is often mixed with Arab and Malay folk music.
Although the influence of foreign culture, some remote Indonesian regions still preserve uniquely indigenous culture. Indigenous ethnic groups of Mentawai, Asmat, Dani, Dayak, Toraja and many others are still practicing their ethnic rituals, customs and wearing traditional clothing.