Banyuwangi is not only known for its natural beauty, but also for its rich traditions. One such unique tradition is Kebo-keboan ritual, a role-playing art performance that is full of spiritual values and gratitude to the Creator for the harvest. The name Kebo-keboan itself literally means “imitation buffalo,” as the performers dress up and act like buffaloes.
The Origin of The Kebo-keboan Ritual
The Kebo-keboan tradition has been passed down from generation to generation since the 18th century. This tradition originated from the Osing people who live in Alasmalang Village. Legend has it that the tradition began when the village was hit by an outbreak of disease believed to be sourced from supernatural forces. The plague not only affected the villagers, but also the crops, with the presence of pests threatening their harvest.
A long time ago, farmers experienced simultaneous crop failures. As a result, rice supplies became very scarce, and many residents fell ill and died. In this critical situation, a village elder named Mbah Karti decided to perform a meditation to seek guidance. After receiving the guidance, Mbah Karti directed the villagers to hold a massive thanksgiving. In the ritual, the farmers were asked to act as buffaloes as a form of respect to Dewi Sri, the goddess who symbolizes prosperity and safety. A miracle occurred: after the thanksgiving, disease outbreaks and pest attacks on crops suddenly disappeared.
In Aliyan Village, the figures who received similar guidance were Mbah Wongso Kenongo and his son, Joko Pekik. After meditating, Joko Pekik exhibited an unusual behavior, imitating the behavior of a buffalo while rolling in the rice fields. Although this seemed strange, it was followed by the disappearance of pests and plagues. Soon, the harvest was bountiful, bringing prosperity back to the villagers.
Why Buffalo and Not Cattle?
Buffaloes were chosen because of their great service in helping farmers every day. Their power is greater than cows, which is why buffaloes are mostly chosen to help plow the fields. Farmers would not be able to work without the help of buffaloes, so the Kebo-keboan ritual is also an expression of gratitude.
Kebo-keboan in Various Villages
Currently, there are only two villages in Banyuwangi that still carry out the kebo-keboan tradition, namely Alasmalang Village and Aliyan Village. The purpose is still the same, to express gratitude and ward off pests.
Implementation of Kebo-keboan Ritual
In accordance with the stages in each village, usually the local residents will hold a cleaning event before the kebo-keboan begins. Then one day before, the women gather to prepare offerings consisting of tumpeng, kinang ayu, ingkung ayam, water jugs, to be placed at each corner of the road intersection.
Ceremonial equipment, namely pacul, rice, rice seeds, crops, and sugar cane are also prepared by the youth. Farmers also prepare dams to irrigate the rice that will be planted during the kebo-keboan ceremony.
The next day, in the morning, a prayer is held together before the event begins. Keboan (kebo-keboan actors) appear with oil-covered black bodies, horns, wigs, and some carry plows. They are accompanied by a beautiful woman who plays the role of Dewi Sri and paraded around the village, but because most of the keboan are in a trance, or trance on the way, the keboan will move here and there and even attack people.
Upon encountering a mud pit, the keboan usually immediately rolls around in the mud, splashing mud in all directions. This activity lasts for quite a while without showing any signs of fatigue. However, if a keboan is so exhausted that it falls down, the family will immediately revive it by splashing it with water before taking it home.
While the keboan is running around, Dewi Sri distributes rice seeds to the farmers to be planted immediately. The farmers scramble to get the seeds, because it is believed that the seeds obtained from this ceremony bring blessings, so that they will grow fertile and provide abundant harvests.
After the ceremony is over, all participants return to their respective homes while carrying the rice seeds that have been distributed. In the evening, a shadow puppet show is held that tells the story of Dewi Sri, as a form of entertainment for residents who have participated in the implementation of the kebo-keboan ceremony.
The Importance of Kebo-keboan Implementation
Kebo-keboan has an important role in maintaining Banyuwangi’s cultural heritage. This tradition symbolizes strength, respect for ancestral spirits, belief in the spiritual world, and gratitude to the Almighty.
Kebo-keboan also attracts tourists who are interested in getting to know and experience the unique culture of Banyuwangi. Through kebo-keboan, Banyuwangi people not only strengthen their cultural identity, but also preserve the noble values passed down from generation to generation.