Banyuwangi's Seblang Olehsari Ritual Held for Seven Consecutive Days

RRI.CO.ID, Banyuwangi - Banyuwangi’s cultural landscape has found a new focal point this Eid season as a 20-year-old debutante leads the sacred Seblang Olehsari ritual, a centuries-old tradition aimed at warding off misfortune and purifying the village. The seven-day ceremony, running from Monday, March 23, to Sunday, March 29, 2026, continues to serve as a profound spiritual anchor and a major tourism draw for the regency located in Banguwangi, East Java, the eastern tip of Java.

This year’s ritual introduced Sayu Apriliani, the daughter of Muhammad Putra Wahyudi and Irawati, as the primary dancer. Her selection was far from conventional. In keeping with ancient customs, Seblang dancers are chosen through a rigorous supernatural process and must possess a direct ancestral lineage to former dancers.

Sayu officially succeeds Putri Ramadhani, who completed her three-year tenure last season, marking a new chapter for the tradition that takes place annually during the early days of the month of Syawal.

Banyuwangi Regent Ipuk Fiestiandani emphasized that the endurance of the Seblang Olehsari ritual is essential to the region's identity. During her visit on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, she highlighted how these customs provide a sturdy foundation for the local community's character while simultaneously boosting the regional economy through cultural tourism.

"Banyuwangi is very rich in traditional customs and culture. We will continue to strive to preserve this tradition as an ancestral heritage," said Regent Ipuk, as reported by Antara.

She noted that the event holds deep spiritual significance for the residents of Olehsari Village in the Glagah Subdistrict. Additionally, the ritual has become a unique attraction for tourists vacationing in Banyuwangi during this Eid holiday.

The local administration also expressed satisfaction with the high public engagement and the seamless execution of the complex ritual. Village Head Joko Mukhlis noted that the sacred nature of the dance remains intact even as it attracts thousands of spectators from across the country.

"I am very grateful that this year’s Seblang Olehsari traditional ritual is running smoothly. This sacred ritual can now be witnessed by the general public, including both local residents and visitors from outside Banyuwangi," said Joko. ***