Usaba Sambah is a prominent traditional ceremony in Bali, especially in the village of Tenganan Pegringsingan. This historic event, held annually, has been passed down through generations since the 11th century. Tenganan's villagers are well-known for their unrelenting dedication to preserving their rituals and traditions, which ensures that Usaba Sambah remains a vital and important part of their cultural history.
Usaba Sambah is prepared by the village's youth, known as Teruna for boys and Daha for girls. They are schooled in dormitories, where they learn about village traditions and customs. This education guarantees that Usaba Sambah's knowledge and traditions are handed on to future generations, preserving the ceremony's authenticity and relevance.
Like many traditional Balinese celebrations, Usaba Sambah revolves around prayer rituals known as sambah. These ceremonies entail making offerings, or banten to Sanghyang Widi, the supreme deity, at the village temple. For an entire month, the people participate in these sacred rites to display their devotion and seek favours.
The Pandan War, also known as Mekare-kare, is the apex of Usaba Sambah, a dramatic and symbolic event dedicated to Lord Indra, the deity of war. In this rite, combatants use prickly pandan leaves to inflict minor wounds, symbolising valour and bloodshed in honour of their deity. The cockfighting custom, known as Tabuh Rah is also observed, emphasising the concept of sacrifice and valour.
Another distinguishing feature of Usaba Sambah is the Mayunan Tradition, a tradition which begins with purification and procession known as Ngastiti Ritual. Two young men rotate the swing, which is fashioned like a wheel with several seats. This action represents the cycle of life, reflecting the ups and downs that individuals go through, including times of joy and grief .
The Pandan War symbolises courage, since participants proudly bear the scratches left by pandanus thorns. The Daha play an important role here, creating herbal remedies to cure the wounds and demonstrating women's roles in this rite.
In Tenganan Pegringsingan, Usaba Sambah is more than just ceremonial; it is a living witness to the village's cultural heritage. This annual festival continues to bring the community together by involving its youth and preserving its rituals, while also commemorating their history, valour, and the cyclical aspect of life.
