Bali is famous for its natural beauty, art, and rich culture. One of the most interesting traditions on the island is the Perang Pandan/Pandan War, which takes place in the ancient village of Tenganan, part of the Bali Aga (original Bali). The Pandan War, also called mekaré-kare, is not a war in the sense of confrontation, but a sacred ceremony held to honor the God Indra, the god of war and the sky in Balinese Hindu beliefs.
History of Tenganan Village and the Perang Pandan
Tenganan Village is one of the few Bali Aga villages that still maintains its unique customs and traditions, different from other villages in Bali. The villagers are known to live in a very structured society and uphold their customary rules. One of the most important ceremonies in Tenganan is the Perang Pandan.
According to legend, the Pandan War is a way for the people of Tenganan to honor the God Indra, who is believed to be their protector. Lord Indra is described as a formidable god of war, and the people of Tenganan show their respect through this symbolic battle ritual.
What is the Perang Pandan/Pandan War?
The Perang Pandan/Pandan War is a ritual fighting ceremony performed by men in Tenganan Village. In this event, men fight one-on-one using thorny pandan leaves as their weapons and rattan shields to protect themselves. Although it looks scary, the purpose of the Pandan War is not to hurt, but rather to strengthen brotherhood and fulfill spiritual duties to Lord Indra.
Each participant holds a handful of thorny pandan leaves in one hand and a shield in the other. They whip each other with the thorny pandan leaves, and although minor injuries often occur, it is considered part of the ritual and does not cause hostility.
photo source: pesonaindonesia.com
The Procession and Procedures of the Perang Pandan
The Perang Pandan is held as part of the Usaba Sambah ceremony, which is one of the biggest annual celebrations in Tenganan. This ceremony lasts for a whole month, usually between June and July. The Pandan War is the highlight of the ceremony and attracts the attention of both locals and tourists.
Before starting the war, the men who will fight wear typical Tenganan cloth and traditional headdresses. They also pray at the temple to ask for blessings and protection from the God Indra.
The fight begins with two men advancing to the center of the arena and facing each other. Each round lasts a short time, only a few minutes, and afterward, the participants are treated by village women with traditional medicines made from coconut oil and natural herbs to heal wounds.
The Meaning and Philosophy of the Perang Pandan
Although it looks tough and full of risk, the Perang Pandan actually has a deep meaning for the Tenganan community. First, it is a form of respect for the God Indra. The villagers believe that through this symbolic fight, they show their courage and devotion to the god of war.
Second, the Perang Pandan also reflects the values of brotherhood and solidarity. Although fighting each other, there is no hostility between the participants. After the fight is over, they remain friends and united as part of a larger community.
A Tradition That Continues to be Preserved
In the modern era, the Perang Pandan remains an important part of Tenganan culture. This tradition is not only a tourist attraction, but also a symbol of the Tenganan community’s determination to preserve their customs. Perang Pandan is an example of how the Bali Aga community has managed to maintain their identity amidst changing times.
Although many consider this ritual to be extreme, for the Tenganan people, it is part of a valuable cultural heritage. Perang Pandan is their way of uniting spirituality, tradition, and brotherhood in one meaningful ceremony.
Location of Tenganan Village and Distance from Other Places in Bali
Tenganan Village is located in Manggis District, Karangasem Regency, Bali. This village is about 60 km from Denpasar and can be reached in about 1.5 to 2 hours by car. From Ubud, the distance is about 35 km and takes about an hour’s drive. Meanwhile, from Ngurah Rai Airport in Kuta, the distance is about 65 km, with a travel time of about two hours. Although the location is a bit remote, the beautiful natural scenery along the way to Tenganan, as well as the unique culture on offer, make a visit to this village very worthwhile.
Cost of Watching Pandan War
To watch Pandan War, visitors are not charged an official entrance fee, but voluntary donations are usually welcomed as a form of support for preserving this tradition. In addition, there is a parking fee for private vehicles which is quite affordable. However, other costs that may arise are for transportation to Tenganan Village and purchasing typical village souvenirs such as geringsing woven cloth.
Perang Pandan in Tenganan Bali is not just a symbolic fight, but a meaningful ritual to honor the God Indra and strengthen unity among the community. With its uniqueness, this tradition continues to be preserved and has become one of the cultural attractions that attracts the attention of many people. For the Tenganan people, Perang Pandan is an ancestral heritage that must be maintained and celebrated with pride.
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