A vibrant cultural celebration in joyful unity that reflects a powerful symbol of shared harmony

Amid Indonesia’s rich cultural heritage, Lombok presents a unique tradition that reflects the deep harmony among its religious communities. Known as Perang Topat, this cultural ritual highlights the unity between the Sasak Muslim community and the Balinese Hindu community. Held annually at Taman Lingsar in West Lombok, the event has long been a symbol of tolerance and gratitude that lives within the local society.

Perang Topat is not a hostile clash, but a joyful “battle” using ketupat as its centerpiece. As dusk falls, hundreds of residents gather in the courtyard of Pura Lingsar with ketupat in hand. Instead of being eaten, the ketupat is playfully thrown at one another in a cheerful atmosphere filled with laughter and prayers. This tradition marks the culmination of the Pujawali ceremony, a sacred day for Balinese Hindus, and follows a series of dhikr and communal prayers performed by the Sasak Muslim community at Kemaliq. When both rituals conclude, the two communities come together in one shared space to express gratitude for the year’s abundant harvest.

Pura Lingsar itself holds a long and meaningful history. Built in the eighteenth century by King Anak Agung Ngurah, the temple was created as a shared place of worship for Hindus and the Wetu Telu Muslim community. Since that time, Perang Topat has continued as an annual tradition that unites two belief systems in a spirit of togetherness. The event is still held at the same site, typically in November or December, in accordance with the Sasak and Balinese calendars.

As a cultural heritage that fosters unity, Perang Topat has been recognized as an Intangible Cultural Heritage by the Ministry of Education and Culture of the Republic of Indonesia through Decree Number 19255/mpk.F/kb/2020. This acknowledgment affirms the importance of the tradition in strengthening Lombok’s cultural identity while upholding interfaith harmony in Indonesia.

Beyond its religious context, Perang Topat has grown into a highly anticipated cultural event each year. From 29 November to 11 December 2025, both residents and visitors will once again have the chance to witness this tradition at Taman Lingsar. The festive atmosphere, warm interactions between communities, and the beautiful surroundings of Lingsar make it an appealing experience for anyone wishing to explore the richness of Lombok’s cultural heritage.

Through this tradition, it becomes evident that diversity is not a source of division but a powerful force of unity. Through ketupat joyfully exchanged without causing harm, the people of Lombok demonstrate that tolerance, harmony, and togetherness can be celebrated through a tradition passed down for generations. Perang Topat stands not only as a cultural event, but also as a living reflection of noble values that continue to be preserved today.

photo source: instagram.com/perangtopat_lingsar

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