Left: Portrait of Nindy Rosalina Ekaputri. Right: The Mangkunegaran Royal Heirloom Parade procession (Courtesy of Vinta, 2025 via Diskominfo SP Surakarta).
Nindy Rosalina Ekaputri, a student in the Javanese Language, Literature, and Culture program and a recipient of a scholarship from the Arsari Djojohadikusumo Foundation (YAD), had the opportunity to participate in the Kirab Pusaka Dalem Mangkunegaran procession as part of the celebration of the Javanese New Year, 1 Sura Be 1960, which carried the theme “SuraMulihPulih.” This participation was a valuable experience for Nindy, allowing her to gain firsthand insight into Javanese cultural practices that she had previously studied through lectures and academic research.
Prior to the procession, participants took part in a dress rehearsal held the day before. During this activity, participants received instructions regarding the rules of the procession, their positions in the lineup, and the route to be taken. The entire formation of participants was determined by the Mangkunegaran authorities to maintain order and harmony during the procession.
On the day of the event, the series of activities began with a communal meal, the nyuwun palilah dalem ritual, and a joint prayer. Next, the sacred heirlooms were brought out from Dalem Ageng and handed over to G.P.H. Paundrakarna Jiwo Suryonegoro, the Cucuk Lampah Kirab, the procession leader who guided the parade and ensured the events proceeded in accordance with established traditions. The procession was then officially launched by K.G.P.A.A. Mangkoenagoro X at 8:30 p.m. WIB.
During the procession, six royal heirlooms are paraded around the central area of Surakarta. Throughout the procession, all participants observe a vow of silence and walk barefoot. For Nindy, this silence was not merely a rule to be followed, but rather a space for the most honest inner dialogue. This process invited the procession participants to deeply reflect on the concepts of atita (letting go of the past), atiki (being fully present in the moment), and anagata (embracing the future), which form the philosophical core of the 1 Sura commemoration at Mangkunegaran. The serene atmosphere enveloping the procession is truly in harmony with the theme “SuraMulihPulih”, a call to reflect on oneself and prepare for a better life.
Public enthusiasm was palpable along the entire parade route. Thousands of residents crowded various spots to witness the procession, which unfolded in an orderly and solemn manner. In addition to watching the parade, the public was also eagerly awaiting the water used to wash the heirlooms. In Javanese tradition, this water is often regarded as a symbol of blessings and good fortune for those who receive it.
After the procession concluded, the series of activities continued with the distribution of udik-udik to the community by K.G.P.A.A. Mangkoenagoro X, G.P.H. Paundrakarna Jiwo Suryonegoro, and G.R.Aj. Ancillasura Marina Sudjiwo. Parade participants also received servings of black and white sticky rice, which symbolize balance and harmony in life.
For Nindy, participating as a heirloom escort was an experience that enriched her understanding of Javanese culture. This experience demonstrated that cultural preservation is not only achieved through classroom learning but also through direct involvement in traditions that remain alive within the community. Through the participation of the younger generation, cultural heritage such as the Dalem Mangkunegaran Sacred Relics Procession is expected to be preserved and passed down to future generations.
Author: Nindy Rosalina Ekaputri
Editors : Nindy Rosalina Ekaputri & Haryo Untoro
List of Figures
Vita. (2024, July 8). Ribuan warga saksikan Kirab Pusaka Malam Satu Suro di Surakarta [Thousands of residents witness the Malam Satu Suro Royal Heirloom Parade in Surakarta]. Dinas Komunikasi, Informatika, Statistik dan Persandian Kota Surakarta. https://diskominfosp.surakarta.go.id/detail-berita/ribuan-warga-saksikan-kirab-pusaka-malam-satu-suro-di-surakarta-7537
