Gendhing Anglir Mendhung was created by Mangkunegara I in about 1790. The piece was progressively developed into dance music to accompany Bedhaya Anglir Mendung which tells of the struggle of Raden Mas Said against the Dutch in 1752. The dance is performed annually during the 'Jumenengan' or the inauguration of Mangkunegara. When this dance is performed, it is always marked by rainfall.