If you go to Indonesia in August, you will find many local community activities when celebrating the independence day. Each village has various activities and games to fill the holidays and welcome independence day.
One of the familiar ones is "Panjat Pinang", actually this game was held by the Dutch when Indonesia was still in the colonial era. The Dutch military leaders held this game for the local community when there were events and special guests arrived.
In the past; The Dutch company sat watching the local people competing to climb the areca nut tree that had been smeared with used oil, at the top of the tree there were various prizes, the community had to unite to climb the areca nut tree to get the prize on the tree.
After Indonesia's independence, this game was still preserved, but it was the village or even district/city government that carried it out.
Basically; Panjat Pinang is a game that involves a group of participants who usually come from one village, they try to climb an areca nut pole coated with oil or lubricant, to get the prize hanging at the top competing with other villages on other areca nut poles.
To make the participants excited, the poles are usually installed vertically at varying heights, and various attractive prizes are hung on top, such as money, bicycles, or other items.
Participants usually work together to help each other reach the top of the pole, even though they have to go through slippery and difficult challenges. This game is often played in a cheerful atmosphere and involves many people.
In the philosophy of local wisdom, this game contains the values of mutual cooperation and togetherness that are very strong, where everyone is involved in the same effort, both as participants and spectators who provide support.
In addition, Panjat Pinang is also a symbol of the spirit of struggle and togetherness, which reflects a strong sense of togetherness in Indonesian culture.
Although it looks simple, this game actually tests the physical and mental strength of the participants. Success in reaching the top of the pole brings a sense of proud victory, both for individuals and groups participating in the event.
I tried to capture some images and make them as entries in this Monomad Challenge. Hopefully these images will get support from friends in the Black and White community.
In this Monomad Challenge contest, I want to invite my friends to see some of Black and White photos caught by my camera; "Panjat Pinang as a Local Community Anniversary Celebration in Indonesia", the pictures presented to my friends in Black and white Community 😉
| Camera | Sony A6000 |
|---|---|
| Category | Black and white Photography |
| Location | Lhokseumawe, Aceh |
Warm Regard
Marechausee Adventura 🙂