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Pramoedya's hometown Blora celebrates the writer’s life and work
People in Blora, Central Java, gathered to celebrate the centennial of the birth of local legend Pramoedya Ananta Toer last week, as they reflected on the significance of the author’s work in the literary world, much of which still remains overlooked by many in the regency.
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A poster for the centennial of the birth of prominent author Pramoedya Ananta Toer is displayed in the town square of his hometown of Blora, Central Java, on Feb. 8, 2025. (JP/Radhiyya Indra)
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esidents of Blora, Central Java, book lovers and activists gathered last week to celebrate the centennial of the birth of local legend Pramoedya Ananta Toer, as they reflected on the significance of the author’s work in the literary world, much of which still remains overlooked by many in the regency.
Thursday marked the start of a yearlong “Festival Blora Seabad Pram”, commemorating what would have been the 100th birthday of one of Indonesia’s greatest writers.
Held by the Pramoedya Ananta Toer Foundation, founded by Pram’s surviving family members, the centennial kicked off in Pram’s hometown of Blora with dozens of its residents flocking to various events held mostly in the pendopo (pavilion) of the regent’s residence from Thursday to Saturday.
The festival itself will last until Feb. 6 of next year, extending beyond Blora with events ranging from discussions to performances related to his work slated for various cities.
Despite the festive air, however, scores of Blora residents attending the events in the regency last week said they had not yet read any of his works or even heard of the author’s name.
“To be honest, I just learned about Pram yesterday when I heard about this event,” Sabar, a police officer in Blora who preferred to go by a pseudonym, told The Jakarta Post on Friday.
Sabar said he only learned about Pram’s national and international stature when he attended the festival's opening on Thursday. He also said that he was never taught about Pram or his works when he went to school in Blora.
