TENGANAN is a traditional village of Karangasem District, Bali, Indonesia. This village is known as one of the Bali Aga or ancient villages, which means its residents still maintain original Balinese culture and customs before the influence of Majapahit.
Tenganan village is about 70 kilometers from Denpasar and can be reached in about two hours’ drive.
Gringsing Cloth: The Uniqueness of Tenganan
Gringsing cloth is a traditional Tenganan cloth which is famous for its complicated and time-consuming manufacturing process. The process of making Gringsing cloth involves the double ikat weaving technique, which is very rare and only exists in a few places in the world.
Ways of making
- Yarn Preparation: Cotton thread is spun manually, then dyed using natural dyes made from plants and other natural ingredients.
- Thread Tying: The pattern on the fabric is formed by tying the threads with a rope before dipping in dye. This process is done repeatedly for each desired color.
- Drying: After the dyeing process, the yarn is dried in the sun until dry.
- Yarn Arrangement: The dyed yarn is arranged according to the desired pattern.
- Placement in the Loom: The thread is then placed in the traditional loom and begins to be woven manually by skilled weavers.
Ingredients
Gringsing cloth is made from manually spun cotton thread. The dyes used come from natural ingredients such as noni roots (for red), indigo leaves (for blue), and turmeric (for yellow). The use of natural dyes provides a distinctive and long-lasting color.
Daily use
Gringsing cloth has a sacred meaning and is often used in traditional and religious ceremonies in Tenganan. This cloth is also used as traditional clothing by local residents in various important ceremonies and celebrations.
Gringsing Cloth Preservation
Gringsing cloth preservation is carried out in various ways, including:
- Education and Training: Tenganan residents teach Gringsing cloth making techniques to the younger generation to ensure this skill does not become extinct.
- Promotion and Marketing: Gringsing cloth is actively promoted through cultural exhibitions, festivals and online sales.
- Government and Organizational Support: Local governments and cultural organizations support the preservation of Gringsing cloth through cultural preservation programs.
Tourist attraction
Tenganan Village attracts many tourists who want to see firsthand the process of making Gringsing cloth and learn about the unique Bali Aga culture. Some tourist attractions in Tenganan include:
- Observation of the Cloth Making Process: Tourists can directly witness the process of making Gringsing cloth by skilled weavers.
- Culture and Customs: Tenganan Village maintains rich traditions and customs, such as religious rituals and traditional dances.
- Beautiful Environment: Tenganan offers beautiful natural views with rice fields and mountains surrounding the village.
- Mekare-kare Festival: This annual festival involves traditional duels with thorny pandan leaves, which attracts many tourists to watch.
Gringsing cloth from Tenganan Village is not just cloth, but is also a symbol of rich cultural heritage and unique weaving techniques. The complicated manufacturing process, use of natural materials, and sacred meaning make this cloth very special.
Tenganan Village with all its beauty and culture is an attractive tourist destination for those who want to experience and understand authentic Balinese culture.
