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Two Sasak warriors engage in a traditional Peresean duel, showcasing Lombok’s rich cultural heritage. (Photo: Wikimedia Commons)

I. Introduction: The Thrill of the Sand Arena

Welcome to Lombok! You may have come for the island’s stunning beaches, but there is one cultural attraction that delivers a deeper, more heart-pounding experience: Peresean.

Picture this: the booming rhythm of Gendang Beleq drums filling the air, dust rising from the arena, and two fierce men—known as Pepadu—standing face-to-face. This isn’t a dance performance. This is a raw, traditional duel that showcases the purest form of courage among the Sasak people.

Peresean is a traditional combat ritual where fighters use a rattan stick (Penjalin) as a weapon and a thick leather shield (Ende) for defense. Forget the beach clubs for a moment—if you're looking for an authentic cultural experience packed with adrenaline, Peresean is the living heartbeat of the Sasak tribe that you simply cannot miss.

II. Meet the Warriors: The Heart of the Arena

Peresean is not a wild street fight. It is a structured ritual, steeped in tradition and deep cultural meaning. Every element matters:

Pepadu (The Warrior)

These are real local fighters—not performers. They represent masculinity, honor, resilience, and bravery. For a Pepadu, courage and sportsmanship are non-negotiable.

Penjalin (Rattan Stick)

A solid rattan rod used to strike the opponent. Each hit can leave marks or wounds—symbols of life’s challenges that must be faced with bravery.

Ende (Leather Shield)

A round shield made from thick buffalo hide. It serves as the main defense tool, symbolizing protection, dignity, and one’s ability to safeguard family and self.

Gendang Beleq

The energetic traditional drum ensemble that fires up the spirit of the fighters. Its rhythm is believed to carry spiritual significance and call upon the strength of Sasak ancestors.

III. More Than a Fight: The Philosophy Behind the Wounds

This is what makes Peresean so unique—it's not about violence or hatred. It carries a deep spiritual meaning.

Historically, Peresean was performed as a ritual to ask for rain during long droughts. The belief was simple: the more blood spilled in the arena, the heavier the rain that would come. This is why Peresean is often called a sacred “War Dance.”

Ultimate Sportsmanship

After the fight, regardless of how hard they fought, the two Pepadu must shake hands and embrace. No anger, no grudges—just mutual respect. Victory and defeat belong only to the sands of the arena.

A referee called Pekembar ensures fairness, stopping the fight if it becomes too dangerous. Peresean teaches that true bravery is the ability to fight honorably, accept defeat, and leave all hostility behind.

IV. How to Watch Peresean: Schedule, Locations, and Useful Tips

If you want to witness this epic tradition yourself, here’s what you need to know:

When to Watch

Peresean isn’t held daily. It is usually performed during:

Cultural festivals (like Bau Nyale Festival in Central Lombok)

Major local celebrations

Special tourism events

Where to Watch

Most Authentic: Traditional villages such as Sade and Sukarara

Most Frequent: Public fields or event venues around Mataram, Kuta Mandalika, and Senggigi during festivals

Tips for Tourists

Respect the Ritual: Keep a safe distance and follow instructions from the organizers.

Enjoy the Music: The Gendang Beleq performance is a powerful part of the experience.

Be Prepared: The combat is real. Blood may appear. Consider it part of the ancient ritual—not stage drama.

V. Closing: The Warrior Spirit of Lombok

Peresean is a rare blend of martial art, spiritual ritual, and cultural expression. It offers a genuine window into the courage, honor, and ancestral philosophy of the Sasak people.

Lombok is more than its beaches. Come, watch, and feel the living spirit of Sasak warriors through the timeless tradition of Peresean

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