Baratan

Summary

Baratan is a traditional celebration in Jepara, Central Java, held annually on the 15th of Sya'ban. The event begins with prayers and a meal of 'kuli-kuli,' a sticky rice dish. The festival includes cultural performances and a parade featuring the procession of Ratu Kalinyamat, the brave and determined regent of Jepara. The parade honors her legacy in defeating enemies like Arya Penangsang and the Portuguese. The event also selects women to represent Ratu Kalinyamat in the procession. This tradition is a tribute to Jepara's rich history and the spirit of its iconic heroine.

Takeaways

• 😀 Baratan is a traditional event in Jepara, Central Java, celebrated on the 15th of Sya'ban.
• 😀 The name 'Baratan' comes from Arabic, meaning 'Welfare' or 'Blessing'.
• 😀 The event begins with a prayer and a communal meal called 'kuli-kuli', which is made from steamed sticky rice.
• 😀 'Kuli-kuli' is served with a covering made from banana leaves, which is significant in the tradition.
• 😀 After the prayer, cultural performances and processions with lanterns take place, featuring an energetic parade.
• 😀 The procession includes a reenactment of the royal procession of Ratu Kalinyamat, the Queen of Jepara, and her troops.
• 😀 Ratu Kalinyamat was a tough and brave figure, known for her leadership and her fight against the Portuguese.
• 😀 She was the daughter of the King of Demak and married a prince from Aceh, named Syekh Hadirin.
• 😀 Ratu Kalinyamat's brother, Sunan Prawoto, was killed by Arya Penangsang's orders, which led her to seek justice.
• 😀 After her husband’s death in the conflict, Ratu Kalinyamat vowed to defeat the Portuguese and avenge her brother's death.
• 😀 Jaka Tingkir helped Ratu Kalinyamat with her revenge, and she eventually succeeded in becoming the regent of Jepara, making the region prosper.
• 😀 In the Baratan tradition, women from Jepara, particularly those considered beautiful, are selected to portray Ratu Kalinyamat's role.

Q & A

What is the Baratan tradition in Jepara?

Baratan is a traditional event in Jepara, Central Java, celebrated on the 15th of Sya'ban in the Islamic calendar. It involves prayers, communal meals, cultural performances, and parades to commemorate local history and traditions.

What does the word 'Baratan' mean?

The word 'Baratan' is derived from the Arabic word 'Warfare,' which signifies safety or 'barakah,' meaning blessing or prosperity.

What are 'kuli-kuli' and how are they prepared?

Kuli-kuli is a traditional food made from steamed glutinous rice that is pounded until smooth. It is typically served on a wooden plate, symbolizing community and togetherness.

What role do prayers play in the Baratan tradition?

The Baratan tradition begins with a communal prayer or doa bersama, where people gather to offer prayers for safety and blessings, marking the start of the event.

What is the significance of the cultural performances during Baratan?

Cultural performances during Baratan serve to celebrate Jepara’s rich history and traditions, involving vibrant displays of local arts, such as dance and music, and reenacting significant historical events.

Who was Ratu Kalinyamat, and why is she important in the Baratan tradition?

Ratu Kalinyamat was the Regent of Jepara and a symbol of strong leadership. She played a pivotal role in local history, especially through her efforts to seek justice for her brother’s death and her defense against foreign invaders, which are remembered during Baratan.

What tragic event led Ratu Kalinyamat to seek vengeance?

Ratu Kalinyamat sought vengeance after learning that her brother, Sunan Prawoto, was murdered by Arya Penangsang’s henchmen, using a kris belonging to Sunan Kudus.

How did Ratu Kalinyamat's journey for justice unfold?

Ratu Kalinyamat journeyed to Sunan Kudus for answers about her brother’s death. Sunan Kudus explained that it was karmic retribution for Sunan Prawoto’s earlier actions. She then returned, only to be attacked by Arya Penangsang’s forces, resulting in the death of her husband.

What did Ratu Kalinyamat do after the death of her husband?

After the death of her husband, Ratu Kalinyamat performed a form of penance called 'Tapa tanpa busana,' where she gave up all her wealth to fight against the Portuguese and avenge her family.

How did Jaka Tingkir contribute to Ratu Kalinyamat’s quest for revenge?

Jaka Tingkir, motivated by his own encounter with Arya Penangsang’s men, assisted Ratu Kalinyamat in seeking vengeance. Using his supernatural abilities, Jaka Tingkir survived attacks and helped fulfill her mission.