Ronggeng Dukuh Paruk Author Ahmad Tohari Celebrates 78th Birthday

Celebrated Indonesian novelist Ahmad Tohari appeared in good health as he marked his 78th birthday. The author of the acclaimed novel ‘Ronggeng Dukuh Paruk’ remains active, frequently invited as a speaker on literary matters, while his home in Tinggar Jaya Village, Jatilawang District, Banyumas Regency, continues to receive a steady stream of visitors.

On his birthday, Saturday, 13 June 2026, numerous guests visited his workshop, including Pantura cultural figure Atmo Tan Sidik and colleagues from Brebes and Tegal regencies. Notably, Atmo Tan Sidik presented a gift of 78 salted eggs, a Brebes speciality, matching Ahmad Tohari’s age. His most famous novel, ‘Ronggeng Dukuh Paruk’, has been translated into more than five languages, enabling the author to travel to numerous countries.

Approaching his 80s, the father of three expressed profound gratitude for his health, family, and assets, emphasising the importance of ‘eling’ (mindfulness). "The important thing is to be grateful. The more grateful you are, the more enjoyable life becomes," Ahmad Tohari remarked, adding that for the Javanese, the ultimate aspiration is safety in this world and the hereafter. The former journalist also highlighted the phenomena of feudalism and money politics as significant obstacles to achieving a healthy democracy in Indonesia.