Bali is known not only for its beaches but also for its vibrant ancient rituals. One of them is Perang Pandan, or 'pandan leaf war.' This ritual competition among men with thorny leaves takes place annually in the village of Tenganan (Karangasem) during the final days of the Usaba Sambah festival. In 2025, the battles are scheduled for June 21-23.
Perang Pandan is a martial ceremony of the Bali Aga people, symbolizing coming of age and honoring ancestors. In a specially prepared arena, fighters battle using short pandan bundles and bamboo shields. Before the fights, participants perform a ritual of drinking palm wine from leaf-glasses; the event is accompanied by gambuh music and ritual chants.
The duels result only in scratches and shallow cuts, which are immediately treated with a mixture of herbs, vinegar, and turmeric — the wounds heal quickly. After the fights, rivals dine together, showing there are no hard feelings. The winners gain honor and the attention of young women: wearing traditional attire, they swing on ritual swings — a symbol of life’s continuity and the passing on of traditions.
During Usaba Sambah, Tenganan is filled with a festive atmosphere: there are food stalls, workshops for creating lontars (palm leaf manuscripts), and sales of unique double ikat — textiles woven exclusively here.
The village of Tenganan is located 15 minutes from the Jalan Raya Candidasa road. Along the Candidasa coastline, there are many hotels and guesthouses; some offer transfers to the festival — check when booking.
Source: detik
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