Eleven-year-old Rayyan Arkan Dikha is no ordinary child: he’s the internet sensation of Indonesia’s latest “Aura Farming” frenzy. Dressed in traditional Teluk Belanga gear and sunglasses, Rayyan amazed fans around the globe on a Pacu Jalur canoe race in Riau.
Standing proudly at the front of the racing canoe, he made rhythmic, assured moves that the internet immediately referred to as “aura farming,” the act of intentionally performing actions or cultivating a persona to project a cool, confident, and desirable image or aura.
That one unplanned gesture catapulted him from local artist to international symbol of cool, collected vibes.
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Who is Rayyan Arkan Dikha?
Rayyan is from a small village in Kuantan Singingi Regency, Riau province. At 11, he is a Togak Luan, or encouragement dancer, at the bow of his village’s Pacu Jalur boat. This centuries-old festival, organised every August to commemorate Indonesia’s Independence Day, has long canoe-like boats and rowers whose morale is led by these dancers.
Rayyan has been doing this since age nine and has become incredibly confident and poised, even on top of the churning water.
How did the Moment Go Viral?
One TikTok that Lensa Rams uploaded in January in April came alive with Rayyan’s exciting stance and dance. The video went viral. Big names followed: Paris Saint‑Germain players, NFL star Travis Kelce, F1 driver Alex Albon, YouTuber KSI, and even party teams, the Savannah Bananas did the “Aura Farming” choreography.
Kelce’s version alone reached 13 million views. Celebrities, brands, and athletes repeated the meme’s energy, bringing worldwide reach and power.
What is the Cultural Significance?
This isn’t meme material. It is rooted in Pacu Jalur, a cultural festival from the 1600s. Togak Luan performers such as Rayyan assist in coordinating rowers and motivating crews with movement. What started as a practical ritual infused with cultural panache has transitioned into global entertainment.
Rayyan’s success indicates the way tradition can evolve under digital limelight. It also demonstrates that a local festival has the potential to gain international popularity without losing its authenticity.

Real-world influence for Rayyan
Viral fame elevated Rayyan to a new position: Tourism Ambassador of Riau Province. It carries responsibility and possibility: he markets culture, tourism, and youth participation across the province.
The government supported him with a scholarship. For people in Riau, that’s enormous: a testament that traditional arts continue to carry authority and can open doors to new success.
Rayyan Arkan Dikha’s tale strikes the right chord for fans of internet culture and heritage defenders alike. An impromptu, bold boat-top performance in traditional dress became an international phenomenon.
“Aura Farming” today is the embodiment of subtle strength, and Rayyan brings it full force. He is evidence that authenticity, cultural heritage, and social media can become the perfect harmony. For those seeking inspiration, this kid reminds us: sometimes, simple moves and quiet confidence speak louder than the loudest performance.
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