Residents of Gunungkidul Larung 7 Gunungan Gratitude, Welcoming 1 Suro

KABARJAWA – In the atmosphere full of meaning and full of sacred nuances, hundreds of residents and fishermen of Kemadang Village, Whawon Tanjungsari, Gunungkidul Regency, held a Sea Alms Tradition on Kukup Beach on Thursday afternoon (26/06/2025).

This traditional activity is not just a ceremony, but it becomes a tangible manifestation of the expression of society for the abundance of blessings and salvation from God Almighty.

Sea charity at Kukup Beach

Residents and fishermen united in spiritual nuances and cultural excitement, welcoming the night of 1 Suro with seven mountains containing rice cone, fruits, and various crops into the middle of the sea. They believe, the sea is not just a source of livelihood, but also a sacred place that deserves to be respected.

The Sea Alms Committee, Subarno, expressed confidently that the Kukup Coastal community continued to maintain this tradition as an expression of gratitude for the abundant sea catchment and good weather that always accompanied the activities of fishermen.

He asserted that the larungan is not just a ritual, but a spiritual endeavor to maintain the harmony between humans, nature, and the Creator.

Before the mountains, the community held a cultural carnival that drew the attention of the visitors. Kirab originated from the parking area to the beach, showing ranks of Bergodo, Dayang, and cultural attractions such as Reog, Jatilan, and a procession of local residents.

They walk in full service and enthusiasm, praying and hope in every step.

The mountains that were arranged neatly and magnificently were guarded tightly by the troops of Bergodo in Complete Traditional Dress. They carried the mountains carefully while continuing to echo the chanting of prayers and poetry praise.

The sea breeze that blows strongly actually adds to the sacredness of the procession. Arriving at the shoreline, the fishermen raised mountains to the boat to then merge into the middle of a calm and blue sea.

The bright sky and waves seemed to take part in testifying the sincerity of the people of Kukup Beach. The fishermen threw offerings with hope that the sea would always provide sustenance, safety, and protection. Some residents were even seen shedding tears, united in the moment that inspired the soul.

Enthusiasm of tourists

Subarno said that the tradition of sea alms is not just an ancestral heritage, but also becomes the glue of brotherhood and symbols of the pillars of coastal communities.

“We will continue to preserve this activity. This tradition has become a flesh and blood of flesh in our lives. This is the way we maintain relations with nature and the Creator,” he said.

Meanwhile, the enthusiasm of tourists who witnessed the procession was also very high. They packed the shoreline since morning. Many of them capture the moment of mountains as part of an invaluable cultural wealth. Some tourists even drifted into the solemnity of residents’ prayers.

This sacred tradition is proof that coastal communities are still firm in holding customs that are full of spiritual and social meaning.

In the midst of the flow of modernization, Kukup Beach still maintains a living and rooted cultural pulse. This sea alms are not only a cultural party, but also a form of deep reflection on the importance of gratitude, togetherness, and determination in maintaining ancestral heritage.

With seven staff, the coastal community strengthens the determination to survive the sea, basically, and each other.

A very strong message that the tradition when guarded with love and sincerity, will continue to liven up noble values ​​in everyday life. (EF Linangkung)