Lumajang - In the middle of the beautiful hills of Ranupani Village, Senduro District, Lumajang Regency, East Java, there is a tradition that has been preserved for centuries, namely the Tengger Unan-unan Traditional Ritual.
On a sunny Tuesday morning (23/4/2024), residents and traditional leaders of the Tengger Tribe gathered to celebrate a moment that not only symbolizes gratitude, but also maintains harmony with nature and their ancestors.
When interviewed, Lumajang District Secretary Agus Triyono warmly conveyed the deep meaning behind the tradition.
"The Unan-Unan that we carry out in Ranupani Village is a reflection of deep gratitude. We, as part of this nature, feel obliged to take care of it. May we be protected and blessed," he said with a smile.
The Unan-unan ritual, an ancestral heritage, is performed every five years, in the year that the Tengger tribe calls 'Landung'. It is an important marker in their 13-month calendar, a unique time system that illustrates their special relationship with nature.
Unan-unan, which comes from the word "Una" meaning to extend, is not only an offering of gratitude, but also an attempt to extend the months in the traditional Tengger calendar. It is a symbol of their unity with nature and the sky.
Regional Secretary Agus Triyono added that the ritual is a form of respect to the ancestors, as well as a prayer that blessings will continue to flow for the people of Ranu Pani Village. The peak day is not only colored by gratitude, but also 'sajen' in the form of beautifully decorated buffalo heads, symbolizing the sacrifices and hopes they bring.
The Tengger people then parade the 'ancak' containing the offerings to Sanggar Pamujan, the place of worship that is the center of the ritual. There, prayers are offered, hopes are expressed, and bonds with nature and ancestors are strengthened.
"Our hope is for abundant sustenance and safety for all of us, and for future generations. May we remain under the protection of God and our ancestors," he concluded, closing the story with a deep prayer.
From Ranupani Village, another story of gratitude, tradition, and human bond with nature has been told, a story that will not fade from their memories. (MC Lumajang Regency/Ydc/An-m)