Colors of Java - traditions, festivals, mentality and lifestyle

Java strikes with an abundance of contrasts that can be traced in everything. Here there is a large modern city striking with scenic skyscrapers and small villages, where the atmosphere has remained unchanged for hundreds of years. Cultural traditions of indigenous peoples are also very interesting and controversial. Contemporary people living on the island move with the tides, but at the same time they don’t forget about traditions of their ancestors. Like many hundreds of years ago, they stick to old religious beliefs, worship ancient gods and perform mysterious rituals.

Despite dramatic changes that have occurred to the island during last hundred years, thriving national crafts are still there. Java produces great arm blanche, which is appreciated by collectors and hunters from around the world. There are also craftsmen who make incredibly beautiful items of precious metals; Javanese art and jewelry is handed down from generation to generation.

The most mixed city of the island is Jakarta; this is where you can experience all aspects of the local culture and lifestyle. Speaking of the national culture, it’s certainly worth to mention Yadnya Kasada festival, which is held annually in December. This is one of the most beautiful and interesting national holidays. It features, first of all, a rather unusual venue. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Much of the action takes place at the foot of the majestic volcano Bromo, which remains one of the most revered on the island. The festival is devoted to the god of fertility, Bethor Bromo; the volcano is its epitome. During the holiday, local farmers bring to the foot of the volcano their gifts: the sacrificial cattle and poultry, vegetables and fruits. All offerings are brought to the priest; then locals begin to walk with them to the crater of the volcano. The culmination of the festival is dropping gifts into the crater. After the symbolic ritual every farmer can be sure that the next year would bring a rich harvest.

Modern holidays, including large-scale Jakarta International Java Jazz Festival, are held on the island. As you might guess from the name, the venue for the jazz festival is the capital; the music holiday usually takes place in the first half of March.