Unique Ways Conducted by Indonesian Muslim Community to Celebrate Muharram

TIMESINDONESIA, TULUNGAGUNG – Indonesia has been named as the country with the biggest number of muslims in the world. During important festivals such as Muharram, the Indonesian communities especially muslims celebrate with unique traditions that reflect their rich cultural heritage. Muharram is the first month of the Islamic lunar calendar and holds great significance for Muslims worldwide. 

Muharram was also the first month in Islamic calendar. As pers se, it's the Isamic New Year in the country. During Muharram, Muslims engage in various rituals and celebrations. These traditions differ across different regions and communities in Indonesia.

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Here are Five Prominent Practices during the Month of Muharram

1. Tabuik Festival in Pariaman

In Pariaman, West Sumatra, the Muharram observances include the unique Tabuik festival. This event commemorates the martyrdom of Imam Husayn, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad. Elaborate and colorful funeral-like processions are held, with towering replicas of the mausoleums of Imam Husayn and his followers, called Tabuiks, paraded through the streets before being submerged in the sea.

2. Garebeg Maulud in Yogyakarta

Garebeg Maulud is a significant Muharram tradition celebrated in Yogyakarta. Processions are held, carrying garebeg, or lavish displays of royal heritage items, through the city streets. The event is marked by cultural performances, including traditional gamelan music and Javanese dance. Garebeg Maulud showcases Yogyakarta's Sultanate's rich cultural legacy and the appreciation of Prophet Muhammad's birthday.

3. Nyadran Ritual in Central Java

Nyadran is a Javanese tradition held during the Islamic month of Muharram. The community gathers at ancestral graveyards to pay respect to their departed ancestors. Offerings of traditional Javanese food and flowers are made, and prayers are offered, seeking blessings and protection for the coming year. Nyadran reinforces the Javanese belief in the importance of ancestral heritage and familial connections.

4. Pawai Obor (Torchlight Procession) in Various Regions

During Muharram, torchlight processions known as Pawai Obor take place in various regions of Indonesia. Participants carry lit torches symbolizing light and guidance amidst darkness. The procession creates a mesmerizing sight, with people walking together while chanting religious verses and hymns, fostering a communal spirit and promoting devotion.

5. Kenduri Massal (Mass Feast) in Many Villages

Kenduri Massal is a communal feast celebrated during Muharram in numerous Indonesian villages. It involves collective preparations and sharing of food within the community. People come together, contribute dishes, and dine together to strengthen social bonds and express gratitude for blessings received. The Kenduri Massal showcases the spirit of unity, generosity, and harmonious coexistence. It sometimes conducted in the local crossroad or village hall. 

Indonesia's diverse communities cherish their unique traditions during Lunar New Year and Muharram. These festivities celebrate cultural harmony, spiritual devotion, ancestral connections, and community solidarity. The customs and rituals observed during these festivals not only reflect the cultural richness of Indonesia but also unite communities by fostering a sense of togetherness and respect for one another. Whether it's the vibrant celebrations of Lunar New Year or the spiritual observances of Muharram, these traditions showcase the beauty of Indonesia's cultural mosaic. (*)

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