TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Thousands of people took part in the Serak Gulo (Sugar Scattering) in front of Muhammadan Mosque, South Padang, West Sumatra. This traditional event was held by Indian descents residing in Padang.

The ritual was started with collective pray, and followed by scattering small bags of sugar from the roof of the mosque.

“There are around 3 tons of sugar prepared. The sugars are from the residents,” said Chief of the Organizer Hafaz Max Anwar.

According to the chairman of Padang Muhammadan Family, Ali Khan Abu Bakar, the tradition is performed to open the celebration of Maulid (birth) of Sahul Hamid, a figure that spread Islam in India. The celebration is held every Jumadil Akhir the first and lasts for 10 days.

“This tradition was brought to Padang by our anchestors, from the land of Nagor, India,” Ali said.

The philosophy of the ritual, according to Ali, is to spread around knowledges and goodness that are symbolized with sugar.

“That is how ones envision how sweet was the knowlegde brought by Sahud Hamid.”

In addition to that, the tradition was held to preserve the culture heritage plus putting more colors into Padang tourism.

“We are Indonesians with Indian blood.”

The tradition only celebrated in India, Singapore, and Indonesia.

“In Indonesia, it is only held in Padang.”

Padang mayor Mahyeldi Ansharullah and West Sumatra Governor, Irwan Prayitno expressed their supports for the event. They believe that it will promote Padang tourism and will be an entertainment for all residents of Padang.

ANDRI EL FARUQI