Larinyo luruih
Kapalo tagak badiri
Badakek indak bagesoh
Bajarak indak bapisah
Kedua sapi disatukan tali cendang
(It runs straight
Head straight
Close to each other, don't move
Distanced but not separate
The two cows are tied together with a rope)
TANAH DATAR, kiprahkita.net - Thus goes the traditional Minangkabau proverb, capturing the essence of Pacu Jawi, a traditional sport in the Tanah Datar Regency.
Pacu Jawi is more than a sport; it embodies deep philosophical meanings, both explicit and implicit, as illustrated by the five lines above.
The winning cows in Pacu Jawi must run in pairs. A single cow won't suffice. The pair that wins runs in perfect harmony—straight, with heads held high, eyes fixed on the path and target.
Uniquely, these racing pairs run close together but are separated by a plow rope, preventing them from touching. They remain close yet inseparable, bound tightly by the cendang rope.
The victorious cow in Pacu Jawi emerges as the leader, demonstrating its prowess and leadership during the race. This philosophy translates into daily life in Minangkabau society, reflecting the values of leadership and harmony.
Pacu Jawi is an exclusive sport in Luhak Nan Tuo. Despite being a pride of Tanah Datar Regency, it is only held in four sub-districts: Pariangan, Limo Kaum, Sungai Tarab, and Rambatan.
This traditional sport is not practiced in other sub-districts of Tanah Datar and is not part of their local traditions.
Originally, Pacu Jawi was held by the people of Nagari Pariangan in ancient times, conducted after the harvest season.
The host village typically invites other nagaris within the four sub-districts. These villages instinctively know their turn to host the event.
Once the race is over, the paddy fields used as the race track can be immediately planted, thanks to the cows' trampling during the event, eliminating the need for special tilling.
Beyond expressing gratitude and joy after the harvest, Pacu Jawi serves multiple purposes. It provides a venue for social gatherings and building relationships.
The race track also becomes a moment for young people to meet and initiate relationships, potentially leading to marriage.
Economically, Pacu Jawi plays a significant role. Winning cows fetch higher prices, reaching up to Rp60 million today. For local communities, the event is an opportunity to sell traditional food and souvenirs.
The event now attracts national and international tourists, becoming a highly anticipated moment on the tourism calendar.
Pacu Jawi has become part of the national tourism calendar, with tourists planning their trips to West Sumatra to coincide with the event. This surge in tourism motivates local communities to revive and maintain this unique tradition.
Indeed, Pacu Jawi is a priceless asset of Tanah Datar Regency. The local government and related parties are committed to preserving and promoting it as a vital part of the region's development.
In recent times, other areas in West Sumatra have expressed interest in developing Pacu Jawi as a tourist attraction.
However, finding suitable race tracks has been challenging. The primary issues are the availability of proper race tracks, field conditions, and water supply.
Without these, jockeys and cow owners are reluctant to participate, fearing injuries during the race .
Pacu Jawi remains a testament to Minangkabau culture's rich heritage, symbolizing unity, leadership, and community spirit.
Its continuation is a collective effort, ensuring this tradition thrives for generations to come..(MUSRIADI MUSANIF, this article was published in Luhak Nan Tuo Magazine)
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