Jakarta, Indonesia Sentinel — The durian season in Indonesia is a highly anticipated time, celebrated not just for the fruit’s distinct taste, but also for the rich traditions and festivals associated with it.
Across the country, communities mark the arrival of durian season with various cultural events that showcase local customs and promote the preservation of indigenous heritage. From lively durian festivals to age-old traditions
These events draw durian lovers and culture enthusiasts eager to partake in the celebrations and festivities. Here are some unique durian-related events and practices celebrated in Indonesia.
Larung Durian Tradition
The Larung Durian tradition, celebrated in Wonosobo, Central Java, marks the arrival of durian harvest season. The custom involves sending dozens of poor-quality or spoiled durians into the river.
This act is not only a way to give thanks for a bountiful harvest but is also believed to ensure that the next season’s durian crop will be of high quality and yield. The tradition is especially important for farmers hoping for better results in the coming harvest.
One of the places where this tradition takes place is Sinduagung Village, known for being a major durian-producing area in Wonosobo. The village’s durians are renowned for their delicious flavor and its high-quality. Much of the village’s harvest is exported to other parts of Java, solidifying its reputation as a prime durian hub.
Kenduren Festival
In Wonosalam, Jombang, East Java, the Kenduren tradition is an essential part of the durian harvest celebration. As one of the largest durian-producing regions in the province, Wonosalam holds this ritual to express gratitude to God for the bountiful fruit harvest.
The highlight of this event is a procession featuring nine towering “tumpengs” (traditional cone-shaped offerings) made of fruits and vegetables, with durian as the centerpiece. Each year, the volume of produce used in the tumpengs corresponds to the current year, showcasing the community’s abundant harvest.
The Kenduren tradition includes a festive parade, followed by the free distribution of durians to the public and tourists who participate in the ceremony, making it a much-anticipated event for durian enthusiasts.
Nyantu’ Durian Tradition
The Nyantu’ Durian tradition, also known as waiting for the durian to fall, is a unique custom in Kalimantan. This practice, passed down through generations, involves waiting for durians to fall from trees in the forest, then picking and eating them directly.
Before starting, participants set up tents or shelters near durian trees and wait for the fruit to drop. The tradition is commonly practiced in several regions of West Kalimantan, including the villages of Bhakti Mulya, Kecurit, Toho, and Arut Utara in Central Kalimantan.
This age-old tradition is not only a cultural heritage but also a fun and exciting durian-themed tourism experience.
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These celebrations highlight the deep connection between Indonesians and their agricultural traditions. More than just a culinary delight, durian season becomes a cultural spectacle, blending gratitude, heritage, and community spirit.
(Raidi/Agung)
