Islamic New Year: Villagers Scramble for Produce and Float Offerings in Kalimas River

Hundreds of residents of Bogempinggir village, Balongbendo district, Sidoarjo regency, held a Suroan tradition to welcome the Islamic New Year 1 Muharam 1448 Hijriah, or 1 Suro, on Tuesday (16/6). During the event, residents scrambled for a mountain of agricultural produce and floated offerings into the Kalimas River.

The annual tradition began with a procession of a gunungan—a mountain-shaped arrangement of tempeh, vegetables, and fruits—from the village hall to the banks of the Kalimas River. Upon arrival, hundreds of residents immediately scrambled for the contents of the gunungan, believing that the produce would bring blessings and abundant fortune. Following the scramble, the procession continued with the floating of offerings into the Kalimas River.

“Residents believe that the produce being scrambled for brings blessings. I got long beans and several other vegetables,” said Ellen, a local resident.

Bogempinggir Village Head Sutikno explained that the ritual is a form of gratitude and a collective prayer for the safety of the residents. “This activity aims to seek protection, safety, and blessings for all residents of Bogempinggir Village,” Sutikno said.

Sutikno added that the Suroan tradition is routinely held at the beginning of every month of Muharam. In addition to being an effort to preserve local wisdom, this annual agenda also serves as a momentum to strengthen togetherness and mutual cooperation among village residents.