Indonesians celebrate Independence Day or the Anniversary of Indonesia every 17 August in many ways. In West Java, the Jampana Parade, held annually by the Pasundan communities, marks another year of Indonesia’s independence.
What does the Jampana Parade look like, and what are its meanings? Let’s find out in this article!
In Sundanese language, the word jampana means ‘palanquin’. Correspondingly, the term Jampana Parade refers to a procession of marching palanquins. What do these palanquins carry? According to Wonderful Indonesia’s website, the palanquins in this parade contain various agricultural products, signature West Javanese snacks, and local crafts.
Once filled, those palanquins will be carried by two to four people through city streets or specific routes to a predetermined location. Along the journey to the endpoint, the Jampana Parade procession will be accompanied by music from traditional and modern instruments played live by several musicians.
Since this is a parade, there will certainly be more than just one palanquin being carried around. That’s right, in every Jampana Parade organized by the Pasundan communities, dozens or even tens of palanquins will be paraded around.
Once at the destination, the parade participants and local residents spectating the parade will grab hold of all the agricultural products and local crafts paraded in the procession. Meanwhile, any ready-to-eat West Javanese snacks will be enjoyed together.
Now, you know why the Pasundan communities regularly hold this parade during the Anniversary of Indonesia, right? Besides, on 17 August, the Jampana Parade is also held by the Sundanese people on other major occasions, such as the anniversary of a city or district in West Java.
According to detik.com, the Jampana Parade is more than a public celebration of Indonesia’s Anniversary for the Sundanese people. This long-standing tradition also aims to preserve the culture and history of the Land of the Sundanese. As long as the Jampana Parade exists, the younger generations from this region will know their ancestral customs.
The parade also preserves culture and history and strengthens regional identity. Validnews.id, on its webpage, calls this activity a platform for the people of West Java to showcase the richness and uniqueness of West Javanese culture, which is part of the Indonesian nation.
In addition, the Jampana Parade can also be a means of economic growth for the people of West Java. Through this procession, local residents have the opportunity to introduce their signature products, whether agricultural or crafts. In this sense, the Jampana Parade serves as a product marketing platform, which can later boost the sales of local businesses.
The final meaning, which is equally important, is connected to tourism. The Jampana Parade can also attract tourists visiting the City of Flowers, Bandung, and its surrounding areas in August. In addition to natural and cultural tourist destinations, this parade can be a tourists magnet.
That was a brief overview of the Jampana Parade, one way the Indonesian people in West Java celebrate Independence Day. If you want to experience this parade yourself, go ahead and visit Bandung or its surrounding areas in August! Don’t forget to also protect yourself with Travel Insurance from MSIG Indonesia, which will provide comprehensive protection for you and your family when traveling domestically or internationally.
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