Making it a clean sweep

It was an hour before noon, but the sea of people to Karang Rejek village office in Wonosari district did not abate despite the scorching sun.

The villagers were intent on taking part in the community cleanup ritual Rasulan, an annual event in parched Gunung Kidul, Yogyakarta, to show gratitude for a successful harvest.

The ritual -- held on the most auspicious day according to the Javanese calendar -- is believed to bring more blessings in the coming year, with offerings presented in attractive gunungan (coned-shaped rice) and decorated with animal figures.

The ritual, fully funded and prepared by the villagers themselves, is not just an attractive show for the cameras, but demonstrates that the spirit of togetherness lives on.

-- Text and photos by P.J. Leo