RRI.CO.ID, Sleman - The community of Padukuhan Bakungan in Sleman, Yogyakarta Province, recently observed the tradition of Nyadran as a form of ancestral prayer. This annual ritual serves as a meaningful effort to preserve Javanese cultural heritage across generations.

Nyadran is a Javanese tradition involving the cleaning of ancestral graves and communal prayers. This ritual serves as an expression of gratitude and respect before the commencement of the holy month of Ramadan.

This year’s observance took place on Sunday, February 8, 2026, which corresponds to the 20th of Ruwah (eighth month of the Javanese calendar). The tradition was centered at the Bendo Bakungan Cemetery grounds in Kwagon Hamlet, Godean Subdistrict, Sleman Regency. 

This annual ritual is faithfully conducted by local residents and the descendants of those interred. Since early morning, residents and families were seen arriving with flowers for the nyekar (scattering flower over the grave) ceremony.

“This tradition serves as a reminder of mortality and the obligation to honor the ancestors of the Bakungan extended family,” remarked Ki Budi Sutowiyoso, a representative of the annual Nyadran organizing committee.

He further explained that Nyadran can be interpreted as a formal visit (sowan) from grandchildren to their late grandparents or ancestors. 

“There are no elements of shirk or idolatry here. It is simply a cultural expression of etiquette and devotion from children to their deceased parents,” clarified Ki Budi Sutowiyoso. 

He added that the tradition is routinely held every year during the month of Ruwah leading up to Ramadan. “This commemoration is expected to strengthen spiritual values among Bakungan residents. Furthermore, it aims to foster communal solidarity across generations within their daily social and cultural lives,” he remarked.

Asrori Siswanto, a local resident, elaborated on the historical and Islamic origins of bringing flowers during a pilgrimage. He supported this explanation by citing Sahih Hadiths (authentic Prophetic teachings) and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad as understood by modern scholars.

Following the prayer session, residents entered the cemetery area in an orderly and solemn manner to perform the nyekar ritual. The event concluded with a communal feast featuring nasi gurih (savory rice) and ingkung (whole-cooked chicken), symbolizing unity and collective gratitude.

The Nyadran tradition serves as a vital medium to strengthen social bonds between residents and families across generations. The spirit of gotong royong (mutual cooperation) was evident in the active participation of the community from early morning until the event’s conclusion.

The preservation of this tradition is expected to endure as a cultural and spiritual heritage of the Javanese people, particularly for the residents of Bakungan. Nyadran stands as proof that local wisdom can coexist harmoniously with religious values in modern society amidst dynamic times. (Annaila Azzahra/Bambang MBKA)