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Gresik, a city known for its rich history and culture, holds various interesting traditions that have existed for centuries. One of them is Kupatan, or better known as the Lebaran Ketupat tradition. Although Kupatan is generally celebrated throughout Indonesia, in Gresik, specifically in the Pekauman area, this tradition has a unique way of celebrating and is different from other regions.
What is Kupatan Tradition?
Kupatan is a tradition celebrated a week after Eid al-Fitr, or more precisely on the seventh day after Eid al-Fitr. This tradition is usually done by serving ketupat (rice wrapped in coconut leaves) which is eaten with side dishes such as chicken opor, fried chili sauce, and vegetables. However, what makes this tradition different in Pekauman, Gresik, is the timing of the celebration which falls on the night before Eid al-Fitr (H-1) or on the morning of Eid al-Fitr itself.
The Uniqueness of Kupatan Celebration in Pekauman
In Pekauman, a village located in Gresik sub-district, the tradition of Kupatan is celebrated in a very unique way. The people of Pekauman celebrate Kupatan on the night of H-1, which means the day before Eid al-Fitr. On that night, the village is alive with activity. The streets are filled with people doing unjung-unjung, which is silaturrahmi or visiting each other's houses to strengthen the bond of brotherhood.
What distinguishes Kupatan in Pekauman from other regions is the timing of its implementation. Here, people not only celebrate Kupatan on the morning of Hari Raya, but also on the night of D-1, creating a more festive atmosphere and different from most other places that only hold it on the seventh day after Eid. Houses are brightly decorated, and the aroma of ketupat being cooked fills the air.
Welcoming Familiarity with Unjung-Ujung
One of the most important moments in the Kupatan tradition is the unjung-unjung activity, where neighbors and relatives visit each other. When visiting, guests will be served ketupat with various delicious side dishes. This is a moment of togetherness that is highly anticipated by the people of Pekauman. Unjung-unjung is not just an event to eat, but also a place to strengthen silaturrahmi relationships and pray for goodness among each other.
The atmosphere on the night of H-1 in Pekauman is very different from most other areas that focus more on the night of takbiran. Here, the night before Eid is filled with the joy and excitement of a large family gathering. The people of Pekauman really enjoy this tradition, and seeing the crowds on their streets filled with lights and tents on every house is impressive.
The Philosophy Behind Kupatan
Kupatan is not just about food or celebration. It has a deep meaning of togetherness, gratitude, and cleansing the soul after the holy month of Ramadan. Ketupat, which is made of compacted rice, symbolizes purity and cleansing, as well as the hope for a better life after Ramadan. The food, wrapped in coconut leaves, also teaches about simplicity and the importance of sharing with others, especially on blessed days.
Visiting Gresik and Witnessing the Kupatan Tradition
If you are visiting Gresik, especially the Pekauman area, during Lebaran, don't miss the opportunity to experience the excitement of the Kupatan tradition. Besides enjoying the natural beauty of Gresik, you can also learn about the importance of maintaining social relationships and cultural traditions that have been passed down from generation to generation. The Kupatan celebration in Pekauman gives a different feel, where tradition, togetherness, and joy come together in a meaningful event.
So, if you are planning to visit Gresik during Eid, make sure to experience the joy and warmth of the Kupatan tradition that only exists in Pekauman. It's a cultural experience that not only spoils the palate, but also provides valuable lessons about the importance of sharing and maintaining kinship.
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