The Indonesian Archipelago forms an
important part in the history of human civilization in Asia. A number of
scientists even speculate that it is here where civilization of modern
man began. Traces of these ancient human civilizations are embedded in
the megalithic culture of Tana Toraja inSouth Sulawesi Province and will be unveiled to the world at the Toraja International Festival 2014, scheduled to take place from 8th to 10th August 2014, at the Sa’adan Village, at Rantepao, Tana Toraja Regency.
Carrying the theme “Reinventing the
Sacred Highland”, the festival intends to re-discover the sacred beauty
of the “Land of the Heavenly Kings” and celebrate the extraordinary
megalithic culture of Tana Toraja.
The festival will commence on 8th
August 2014 with a colossal performance of Opera Toraja. The opera will
involve musicians, dancers, acrobats, actors, and other artists from
Indonesia and from abroad. On the 9th and 10th
August, the festival will continue with musical performances featuring
Tana Toraja’s own musicians as well as national and international
performers. The festival will be highlighted with an exhibition of
Toraja’s variety of authentic hand-woven fabrics. There will also be a
coffee corner where people can enjoy the world- renowned Toraja Coffee,
and a seminar held on the role of youth in local culture and tourism
development.
This year the festival has invited distinguished guests from England, the United States of America, Zimbabwe, and Korea.
"Discovered" and opened to the world
from their long isolation only since the beginning of the last century,
Toraja ethnic group today still adheres to their age-old beliefs,
rituals and traditions, although many of her people are modernized or
have embraced Christianity. Toraja is most well known for its elaborate
funeral ceremonies that can take days and involve entire villages. These
are not only moments for mourning but are moreover events to renew
family ties and to ensure continued unity among villages and
communities.
To reach Toraja you must first fly to Makassar, capital of South Sulawesi Province. There are multiple daily flights to Makassar from Jakarta, Bali
and other parts of Indonesia. Garuda Indonesia also flies to Makassar
from Singapore. Then you must drive by car or bus to Toraja, The
journey takes over 8 hours. If you plan to attend this unique Festival
it is best to book your hotel well in advance. (Indonesia.travel)
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