The Role of the Juru Kembar in Cockfighting Rituals
The cockfight is considered to have a spiritual dimension. It’s part of the ceremonies in the outermost the public and communal courtyard known as the wantilan, within the temple complex.
If a game is scheduled, the cocks or their handlers take their birds. They then go about seeking the opponents. They exchange their birds when they find a possible opponent.
Cultural Definition
In the eyes of many, cockfighting holds spiritual and social significance. For the owners of cocks, it is more than just the game they play – they consider their cocks as an extension to themselves. They take great pleasure in their wins. The winner’s cock is also associated with an phallic signification, and participating in the fight is seen as a sign of masculinity.
A juru kembar can be described as a professional that manages more than a few cocks in the aftermath of fighting. The juru kembar has many tricks to revive animals. They can do this by making their feathers pluck, massaging the feathers, or gently ruffling them. An excellent juru kembar more valuable than gold for the person who owns it.
Bettors voice their opinions when they are in the cockfights, and repeatedly repeat the color names in staccato. Bettors who are the most well-known are also known as “timing official,” tend to be referred too when in the arena. They are rule of law. The influential anthropologist Clifford Geertz wrote an essay, Deep Play: Notes about the Balinese Cockfight, that discusses this interesting ritual finding daga88.
Traditional Cockfighting practices
Cockfighting traditions offer a fascinating insight into the relationship between religion, tradition, as well as societal standards. While it’s essential to understand and appreciate these events, it’s also essential to consider ethical concerns.
Cockfighting is a game where birds of two distinct owners compete against each other within a cage. The winner is declared after an intense fight which typically lasts until a bird passes away or is severely injured. Cockfights are usually attended by spectators and wagers are put on the outcome of the fight. Thousands of dollars can exchange in the course of these events.
Cockfights are seen as integral to Balinese life and culture. They also serve as a way for Balinese to establish their reputation as a social group. The cockfight is also an income source for the participants, which earn money betting upon their own cocks. When cockfights begin the animals are primed to fight by having their the wattles and combs rubbed or dusted. The natural spurs of the animals, some of which are some inches in length can be cut off using an instrument.
Cockfighting and scuffles in Southeast Asia
Cockfights are a part of ancient Southeast Asian culture, often associated with religious beliefs and communal rituals. Even though the current Wala Meron festival includes cockfighting as well, it also highlights the rich culture of the region. This event celebrates history, culture, and community peace.
In Bali, cockfighting is made a part of a sacred tradition which is why it is protected from nation-wide ban that has existed since. The sport is still practiced in Indonesia as well as Bali, the popularity of it has diminished.
Combat cocks are trained and specially bred for strength and endurance. They’re injected with adrenaline-boosting steroids along with their combs ears and wattles are cut off to promote an aggressive attitude. During the fight the handlers employ their equipment to force birds into fighting. The handlers also pull their combs or prickle their beaks, in order to bring the birds into combat mindset. When they fail, the cocks remain in pain.
Spiritual practices
Tabuh Rah is a religious ceremony in Bali that includes fighting cocks. In this religious ceremony, birds are forced to pour blood on the floor in order to dispel evil spirits. The self-deprecating owner of cocks fighting performs this ritual with prayers and mantras. They wear a variety of chains, metal spurs and carry different ornaments.
They also get specific water and meals to prepare for fights. These routines aid in helping keep the cocks in good fitness for battle. They are fed a Rice special which provides strength and endurance. These fights can last several seconds or an agonizing minute and are a blur of beaks, movements, and wings. It is a time of singing, clapping, and moaning, aswell an influx of gambles. One cock wins and the crowd cheers. It’s a stunning experience.