Magnus Hendratmo
The livelihoods of farmers depend on water. Those in Pluneng village in Klaten regency, Central Java, use water from the Tirto Mulyono and Tirto Mulyani springs.
The abundant water was seen as a blessing from God and residents held a ceremony called Syukuran Banyu (Thanksgiving for the Water) on Sept. 29. This year’s theme was “Sedulur Banyu” (We are all brothers and sisters held by water).
That day, residents carried clay water jugs around the village and through paddy fields to express gratitude. Offerings shaped into cones were also carried.
Afterward, they gathered on the edge of Tirto Mulyono and enjoyed lunch together.
The ceremony aimed to remind the residents to preserve the springs, as they protect their livelihoods. (wng)