TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Thousands of Yogyakarta residents participated in the ‘topo bisu’ (silent retreat) ritual to celebrate Javanese New Year 1st of Syuro 1948. In the traditional ritual, people marched around the Yogyakarta Palace without talking, eating, or other distracting activities.
“The ritual of marching in silent makes time for self-reflection on deeds that has been done, and what needs to be improved,” said Edi Widono, a guard and participant of the ritual.
Groups of people were coming from many directions to the palace. A big group came from the north and led by Songsong Boewono Wawan community.
“This topo bisu is also a way to wish the ruling government can bring prosperity to people,” said Field Coordinator of Songsong Boewono Community to Tempo.
PRIBADI WICAKSONO