Yadnya Kasada 2026 series begins with Mendak Tirta ritual

Probolinggo, East Java (ANTARA) - The sacred Yadnya Kasada 1948 Saka (2026 CE) series began with the Mendak Tirta ritual at Madakaripura Waterfall in Negororejo Village, Probolinggo Regency, on Friday (29 May).

The Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park (TNBTS) has announced a temporary closure of the Bromo tourist area from 30 May to 2 June 2026 to honour the Yadnya Kasada ritual conducted by the Tengger community.

Dozens of Tengger residents walked to the sacred spring sources at Madakaripura to collect holy water for purifying ritual items ahead of the Yadnya Kasada climax at Pura Luhur Poten in Bromo’s Sea of Sand.

The ceremony proceeded solemnly with a collective prayer and offerings of agricultural produce. The ritual was led by Ngadas Village custodian Slamet, who recited sacred mantras before priests and Tengger elders collected the water.

“The holy water collected from four sacred springs is combined and used to purify ritual items at Pura Luhur Poten before the Yadnya Kasada climax,” he said.

“Tengger communities from three regions collect water simultaneously. Probolinggo residents go to Madakaripura, Pasuruan residents to Widodaren, and Lumajang residents to Ranu Pane,” he added.

Madakaripura was chosen as the ritual site due to its strong historical significance for the Tengger people, as it is believed to be where Patih Gajah Mada attained moksha after receiving a land grant from King Hayam Wuruk, as recorded in the Negarakertagama manuscript.

“This belief imbues Madakaripura’s spring with sacredness and blessings passed down by ancestors,” he said.

Meanwhile, Sukapura Subdistrict Head Nur Rachmat Sholeh stated that the government will continue to support the preservation of the Tengger community’s traditions and culture, handed down through generations.

“Mendak Tirta is an annual ritual of the Tengger people with high spiritual and cultural value. The government will continue to support its preservation for future generations,” he said.

The Mendak Tirta ritual marks the start of the Yadnya Kasada series rooted in the legend of Roro Anteng and Joko Seger. The tradition is performed as gratitude to Sang Hyang Widhi Wasa and in honour of the Tengger ancestors’ teachings passed down through generations.

The Yadnya Kasada climax will take place at Pura Luhur Poten and Bromo Crater, featuring the offering of agricultural produce and other gifts as thanks for the year’s blessings to the Tengger community.