Get Closer to Pemalang Culture
Krangkeng is a traditional art form from Pemalang Regency that combines elements of martial arts (kanuragan), dance, traditional music, extreme acrobatics and spiritual nuances. It is famous for its astonishing physical attractions such as immunity and supernatural powers, and is often accompanied by Islamic music and ritual prayers. Not only a spectacle of the people, Krangkeng also functions as a means of da'wah, cultural preservation, and a symbol of the identity of the Pemalang people.
Pemalang Regency itself is an area on the north coast of Central Java that often goes unnoticed. When compared to its neighboring cities, such as Tegal, which is popular for its wartegs and culinary delights, or Pekalongan, which is world-renowned for its coastal batik, Pemalang still sounds unfamiliar to many people outside Central Java. However, behind its serenity, Pemalang holds a rich and distinctive cultural heritage-one of which is the Krangkeng art that has been alive since the heyday of the Mataram Kingdom.
Pemalang is not only rich in culinary delights such as Nasi Grombyang and Apem Comal, but also has a variety of arts such as Sintren, Kuntulan, and Baritan. Among all of them, Krangkeng occupies a special place because of its uniqueness that is difficult to find in other regions, because Krangkeng is a performance that combines body strength, martial arts movements, musical rhythms, and spiritual power on one stage.
The Origin of Krangkeng: From Mataram Warrior Training to Folk Art
Krangkeng art is thought to have been known since more than three centuries ago, precisely during the reign of Sultan Agung of the Mataram Kingdom. At that time, the Mataram Kingdom was in an effort to conquer Batavia, which was controlled by the Dutch VOC. Pemalang, as one of the regions under the auspices of the kingdom, was asked to send soldiers.
To prepare the young soldiers, the Pemalang community developed a martial arts training method called olah kanuragan. Uniquely, each of these physical exercises was accompanied by musical accompaniment such as genjring and drum. The musical accompaniment not only serves as an accompaniment, but also as a reinforcement of the spirit and rhythm in silat movements. This is how Krangkeng was born-a martial art that was developed into a community performance.
Gradually, the training turned into entertainment and folk performance art. The art evolved by adding acrobatic elements and breathtaking physical strength, while retaining its spiritual nuances and traditional music.
Elements of Krangkeng Performance: Silat, Acrobatics and Magical
Krangkeng performances are usually divided into two main parts. The first is the opening section, which features silat-patterned dance moves accompanied by traditional musical instruments. The performers, both male and female, wear distinctive clothing and often sing sholawat or Islamic songs as part of the performance.
The second part is the highlight of the performance. Here, performers will showcase incredible attractions involving endurance and mental strength. Some scenes that are often performed include:
- Stepping on thorn fronds without getting hurt
- Playing with sharp machetes
- Dousing the body with mercury
- Cheek puncture with wire or sharp objects
- Showing "magic" gemstones that are believed to contain supernatural powers
Before the attraction begins, there is usually an opening ritual such as burning incense and reciting certain prayers. It is said that most performers have undergone tirakat or inner training to prepare themselves spiritually.
The Function of Krangkeng: From Ritual to Media for the Propagation of Islam
Krangkeng art is not just entertainment. It holds various important functions in the life of the Pemalang people, including:
- As a ritual tool: In the traditional context, Krangkeng is often performed at traditional events or rituals to ward off bad luck, as well as thanksgiving ceremonies.
- As a medium of folk entertainment: This performance is favored by the public because it presents thrilling attractions wrapped in local cultural nuances.
- As a medium for proselytizing: Through music and the chanting of sholawat, Krangkeng also serves as a tool for the propagation of Islam, especially in the context of rural communities.
- As a regional cultural identity: Krangkeng is part of Pemalang's cultural identity, a symbol of the strength, courage, and spirituality of its people.
Important Figure: Sudaryo, Krangkeng Preservationist from Asemdoyong
One of the important figures who plays a major role in maintaining Krangkeng's existence is Sudaryo, an artist from Asemdoyong Village, Taman District, Pemalang. He founded the Krangkeng art group in 1987 and actively trains the younger generation to continue this cultural heritage.
Sudaryo inherited the knowledge of kanuragan from his grandfather since childhood. With a modern and educational approach, he packaged Krangkeng into an interesting performance without losing the noble values contained in it. He also often fills major religious events with Krangkeng performances with the nuances of Islamic propagation.
Preserving Heritage from the Vanishing Age
In the midst of the onslaught of popular culture and digital entertainment, Krangkeng's existence does face challenges. But thanks to the spirit of preservation from local figures, academics, and the support of the local government, this art is starting to be looked at again. Cultural festivals, youth training, and documentation through social media have become part of the strategy to maintain Krangkeng's sustainability.
Pemalang's younger generation is now showing interest in learning and continuing this art - a sign that Krangkeng still has a place in the hearts of its people.
Preserving Heritage, Discovering Self
Krangkeng is proof that traditional art is not just a relic of the past, but also a mirror of the spiritual power and wisdom of local culture. As an art born since the Mataram era, Krangkeng has passed through a long historical trajectory, remains alive, and even continues to develop. It is an ancestral heritage that should not only be remembered, but also cared for and passed on. In the midst of modernization, Krangkeng reminds us that the power of local culture is timeless. It is precisely there that we find our true identity.
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