The traditional ancestral house Tongkonan, is an architectural icon in Tana Toraja. Not only as a dwelling place, it is also an activity centre of the Torajans. From ancestral affairs, cultural centre, family and mutual assistance development centre, social-economic issues, to family issues take place in Tongkonan. <br />
The family hierarchy can be traced from Tongkonan. The house cannot be owned individually, but passed through generations of families in Tana Toraja tribes. <br />
As tongkonan grows older, the Torajans celebrate it. The procession of Mangrara Banua as the Tongkonan inauguration ceremony is celebrated in a spectacular party. The tongkonan which has entered its 40th year has his bamboo roof replaced. The 100-year-old wall is renewed. Mangrara Banua is turned into a gathering event for clan or family of the descendants of the first dweller of the Tongkonan. <br />
TANA TORAJA.
TANA TORAJA.
Mangrara Banua is a Rambu Tuka procession as a symbol of joy. Everyone attending the procession is joyful, singing and dancing together. The rather rare procession must be done by noon. The ritual is held on the east side of the Tongkonan, the side where the sun rises, and only a buffalo can be sacrificed. <br />
<br />
<br />
TANA TORAJA.
TANA TORAJA.
Photo & Story : Prasetyo Utomo <br />
