Nadranan, a Captivating Sea Festival Tradition in Indramayu
Indramayu, Jaya News.Com – A unique and lively event took place in Limbangan Village, Juntinyuat District, Indramayu Regency. Thousands of Limbangan residents gathered to celebrate the Sea Festival tradition, also known as Nadranan, on Wednesday (April 15, 2026).
This event was organized by the Head of the Mina Sejati Jaya Marine Fishery Agency (KPL) in collaboration with the local village government.
The sea festival, or Nadranan, is an ancient tradition that has been practiced for centuries. This tradition is still preserved by fishermen, as an expression of gratitude to Allah SWT for the blessings of sustenance provided through the natural resources found in the sea.
Tohadi, Head of the Mina Sejati Jaya Marine Marine Park (KPL), expressed his gratitude for the success of this year’s sea festival. He also thanked the Nadranan committee and all parties involved, including the neighborhood association (RT/RW) and the local youth organization (Karang Taruna), which helped ensure the event ran smoothly and without a hitch. “As the head of the Nadranan committee, we are very satisfied with the cooperation of the fishermen who successfully raised funds, involving 300 fishing boats moored at the baroh of the Limbangan River,” he said.
This sea festival tradition is held annually. In addition to expressing gratitude to the Creator, the community also presents offerings of tumpeng rice, various foods, and even a buffalo head placed inside a small boat assembled and decorated by the Nadranan committee. The small boat is then released into the sea, accompanied by the water police unit and several fishing boats in a special parade. The small boat is then abandoned at sea about 2 kilometers from land.
“This year’s sea festival was truly festive, with plenty of entertainment, including theatrical performances, shadow puppetry, and an inter-district soccer match,” added Tohadi.
The Head of Limbangan Village, who is also the head of the APDESI (Indonesian Association of Fishermen’s Associations) for Juntinyuat District, Kuwu H. Nurwenda, expressed his sympathy and support for the Nadranan sea festival committee and the entire fishing community for successfully carrying out this tradition. He also conveyed an important message to fishermen to always be careful when going out to sea, given the various dangers at sea. Kuwu Nurwenda also reminded them to always equip themselves with the proper equipment, such as accident insurance and a boat PAS card. “With all the necessary preparations, we can face various needs with greater peace of mind,” he said.
Hopefully, the Nadranan sea festival will become more lively each year and the fishermen’s income will increase. This tradition is an important part of the culture and identity of the coastal communities of Indramayu that should be proudly preserved.**
(Wari)
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