Tradisi Bau Nyale dan Kisah Putri Mandalika yang Legendaris di Pulau Lombok

Overview of Tradisi Bau Nyale

The video explains Tradisi Bau Nyale, an annual cultural tradition of the Sasak people in South Lombok, and connects it to the legend of Princess Mandalika.

In the tradition, “Bau” means to catch, while “Nyale” refers to a type of sea worm—so the event centers on collecting these sea worms.

Key Highlights

Legend behind the tradition

• Princess Mandalika is believed to be the daughter of King Tonjong Beru and Dewi Seranting.
• She is said to have sacrificed herself by throwing into the sea to prevent being owned by just one person and instead become part of the whole Sasak people.
• Afterward, Nyale sea worms emerge, which leads locals to believe Nyale is Mandalika’s incarnation.

Cultural significance

• What starts as a community activity is also regarded as sacred and meaningful.
• Locals treat Nyale not only as an animal, but as a living symbol of the princess.

Food and processing

• Beyond catching the worms, Nyale is processed into various dishes, such as:
  • Being burned with banana or coconut leaves
• It is also processed into foods like:
  • Chili sauces
  • Coconut milk cakes

Where it happens

The tradition takes place along Lombok’s south coast, running east to west, including areas such as Waru Awang.

When it happens

• It occurs on the 19th–20th of the 10th month and 19th–20th of the 11th month in the Sasak calendar—typically between February and March.
• The video also notes that Nyale sightings often fall around February 15–16.

How the timing is decided

• The exact timing is determined by traditional leaders, based on their expertise.
• The calendar is described as being agreed upon by stakeholders and experts, including:
  • Astrologers
  • Oceanographers
  • Agricultural experts
  • Cultural figures
  • Religious/community representatives

Tone / Reactions

No jokes or obvious reactions are evident in the subtitles; the tone appears informational and celebratory.

Main personalities mentioned (from subtitles)

• Princess Mandalika
• King Tonjong Beru
• Dewi Seranting
• Traditional leaders
• Astrologers
• Oceanographers
• Agricultural experts
• Cultural, religious, and community figures