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  • Rambu Solo Funeral in Lo'Ko Uru, to honor Philippus Possali and Albertina Allo, the elderly couple who died only three months apart from each other. Their families did not wait for long to schedule a date for the funeral. That’s quite rare, others preserve the Toma Kula’ – the sick- up to several years if not decades until they can agree on a funeral date, but also to save up enough for the precious event. <br />
<br />
Provisionally, an arena made of bamboo has been set up during the previous months, to accommodate the extended family, as well as other guests. Roughly 800 guests will be attending the five-day event. <br />
<br />
With buffalo blood on the highway of souls. The last breath of one of the presented water buffalos marks the official death of a "sick person" during the event of a Rambu Solo' funeral. The soul of the deceased will finally raise to Puya - Heaven. The more buffalos to be sacrificed, the wealthier the family and the faster a soul will find its way to Puya. The first buffalo will be sacrificed right after 12 o’clock when the sun starts setting again – Rambu means smoke, Solo means down. The buffalo’s death will mark the departure of a soul on its way to Puya – Heaven. There, it will be with God and live a fulfilling afterlife. Without the buffalo, the soul won’t find its way. Hence, the more buffalos sacrificed, the faster the souls will find their way to Puya. Regarding Aluk To Dolo – the ancestral belief of the Torajans, 24 is the suggested number of sacrificial buffalos – for most castes. But some guests will bring additional buffalos as a gift. In this case, it’s an unwritten law for the family to pay back a buffalo in the same price range at the next funeral.
    Indonesia-Toraja-Rambu_Solo-Loko_Uru...jpg
  • Rambu Solo Funeral in Lo'Ko Uru, to honor Uru Philippus Possali and Albertina Allo, the elderly couple who died only three months apart from each other. Their families did not wait for long to schedule a date for the funeral. That’s quite rare, others preserve the Toma Kula’ – the sick- up to several years if not decades until they can agree on a funeral date, but also to save up enough for the precious event. <br />
<br />
Provisionally, an arena made of bamboo has been set up during the previous months, to accommodate the extended family, as well as other guests. Roughly 800 guests will be attending the five-day event. <br />
<br />
With buffalo blood on the highway of souls. The last breath of one of the presented water buffalos marks the official death of a "sick person" during the event of a Rambu Solo' funeral. The soul of the deceased will finally raise to Puya - Heaven. The more buffalos to be sacrificed, the wealthier the family and the faster a soul will find its way to Puya. The first buffalo will be sacrificed right after 12 o’clock when the sun starts setting again – Rambu means smoke, Solo means down. The buffalo’s death will mark the departure of a soul on its way to Puya – Heaven. There, it will be with God and live a fulfilling afterlife. Without the buffalo, the soul won’t find its way. Hence, the more buffalos sacrificed, the faster the souls will find their way to Puya. Regarding Aluk To Dolo – the ancestral belief of the Torajans, 24 is the suggested number of sacrificial buffalos – for most castes. But some guests will bring additional buffalos as a gift. In this case, it’s an unwritten law for the family to pay back a buffalo in the same price range at the next funeral.
    Indonesia-Toraja-Rambu_Solo-Loko_Uru...jpg
  • Rambu Solo Funeral in Lo'Ko Uru, to honor Uru Philippus Possali and Albertina Allo, the elderly couple who died only three months apart from each other. Their families did not wait for long to schedule a date for the funeral. That’s quite rare, others preserve the Toma Kula’ – the sick- up to several years if not decades until they can agree on a funeral date, but also to save up enough for the precious event. <br />
<br />
Provisionally, an arena made of bamboo has been set up during the previous months, to accommodate the extended family, as well as other guests. Roughly 800 guests will be attending the five-day event. <br />
<br />
With buffalo blood on the highway of souls. The last breath of one of the presented water buffalos marks the official death of a "sick person" during the event of a Rambu Solo' funeral. The soul of the deceased will finally raise to Puya - Heaven. The more buffalos to be sacrificed, the wealthier the family and the faster a soul will find its way to Puya. The first buffalo will be sacrificed right after 12 o’clock when the sun starts setting again – Rambu means smoke, Solo means down. The buffalo’s death will mark the departure of a soul on its way to Puya – Heaven. There, it will be with God and live a fulfilling afterlife. Without the buffalo, the soul won’t find its way. Hence, the more buffalos sacrificed, the faster the souls will find their way to Puya. Regarding Aluk To Dolo – the ancestral belief of the Torajans, 24 is the suggested number of sacrificial buffalos – for most castes. But some guests will bring additional buffalos as a gift. In this case, it’s an unwritten law for the family to pay back a buffalo in the same price range at the next funeral.
    Indonesia-Toraja-Rambu_Solo-Loko_Uru...jpg
  • Rambu Solo Funeral in Lo'Ko Uru, to honor Uru Philippus Possali and Albertina Allo, the elderly couple who died only three months apart from each other. Their families did not wait for long to schedule a date for the funeral. That’s quite rare, others preserve the Toma Kula’ – the sick- up to several years if not decades until they can agree on a funeral date, but also to save up enough for the precious event. <br />
<br />
Provisionally, an arena made of bamboo has been set up during the previous months, to accommodate the extended family, as well as other guests. Roughly 800 guests will be attending the five-day event. <br />
<br />
With buffalo blood on the highway of souls. The last breath of one of the presented water buffalos marks the official death of a "sick person" during the event of a Rambu Solo' funeral. The soul of the deceased will finally raise to Puya - Heaven. The more buffalos to be sacrificed, the wealthier the family and the faster a soul will find its way to Puya. The first buffalo will be sacrificed right after 12 o’clock when the sun starts setting again – Rambu means smoke, Solo means down. The buffalo’s death will mark the departure of a soul on its way to Puya – Heaven. There, it will be with God and live a fulfilling afterlife. Without the buffalo, the soul won’t find its way. Hence, the more buffalos sacrificed, the faster the souls will find their way to Puya. Regarding Aluk To Dolo – the ancestral belief of the Torajans, 24 is the suggested number of sacrificial buffalos – for most castes. But some guests will bring additional buffalos as a gift. In this case, it’s an unwritten law for the family to pay back a buffalo in the same price range at the next funeral.
    Indonesia-Toraja-Rambu_Solo-Loko_Uru...jpg
  • Rambu Solo Funeral in Lo'Ko Uru, to honor Uru Philippus Possali and Albertina Allo, the elderly couple who died only three months apart from each other. Their families did not wait for long to schedule a date for the funeral. That’s quite rare, others preserve the Toma Kula’ – the sick- up to several years if not decades until they can agree on a funeral date, but also to save up enough for the precious event. <br />
<br />
Provisionally, an arena made of bamboo has been set up during the previous months, to accommodate the extended family, as well as other guests. Roughly 800 guests will be attending the five-day event. <br />
<br />
With buffalo blood on the highway of souls. The last breath of one of the presented water buffalos marks the official death of a "sick person" during the event of a Rambu Solo' funeral. The soul of the deceased will finally raise to Puya - Heaven. The more buffalos to be sacrificed, the wealthier the family and the faster a soul will find its way to Puya. The first buffalo will be sacrificed right after 12 o’clock when the sun starts setting again – Rambu means smoke, Solo means down. The buffalo’s death will mark the departure of a soul on its way to Puya – Heaven. There, it will be with God and live a fulfilling afterlife. Without the buffalo, the soul won’t find its way. Hence, the more buffalos sacrificed, the faster the souls will find their way to Puya. Regarding Aluk To Dolo – the ancestral belief of the Torajans, 24 is the suggested number of sacrificial buffalos – for most castes. But some guests will bring additional buffalos as a gift. In this case, it’s an unwritten law for the family to pay back a buffalo in the same price range at the next funeral.
    Indonesia-Toraja-Rambu_Solo-Loko_Uru...jpg
  • Rambu Solo Funeral in Lo'Ko Uru, to honor Uru Philippus Possali and Albertina Allo, the elderly couple who died only three months apart from each other. Their families did not wait for long to schedule a date for the funeral. That’s quite rare, others preserve the Toma Kula’ – the sick- up to several years if not decades until they can agree on a funeral date, but also to save up enough for the precious event. <br />
<br />
Provisionally, an arena made of bamboo has been set up during the previous months, to accommodate the extended family, as well as other guests. Roughly 800 guests will be attending the five-day event. <br />
<br />
With buffalo blood on the highway of souls. The last breath of one of the presented water buffalos marks the official death of a "sick person" during the event of a Rambu Solo' funeral. The soul of the deceased will finally raise to Puya - Heaven. The more buffalos to be sacrificed, the wealthier the family and the faster a soul will find its way to Puya. The first buffalo will be sacrificed right after 12 o’clock when the sun starts setting again – Rambu means smoke, Solo means down. The buffalo’s death will mark the departure of a soul on its way to Puya – Heaven. There, it will be with God and live a fulfilling afterlife. Without the buffalo, the soul won’t find its way. Hence, the more buffalos sacrificed, the faster the souls will find their way to Puya. Regarding Aluk To Dolo – the ancestral belief of the Torajans, 24 is the suggested number of sacrificial buffalos – for most castes. But some guests will bring additional buffalos as a gift. In this case, it’s an unwritten law for the family to pay back a buffalo in the same price range at the next funeral.
    Indonesia-Toraja-Rambu_Solo-Loko_Uru...jpg
  • Rambu Solo Funeral in Lo'Ko Uru, to honor Uru Philippus Possali and Albertina Allo, the elderly couple who died only three months apart from each other. Their families did not wait for long to schedule a date for the funeral. That’s quite rare, others preserve the Toma Kula’ – the sick- up to several years if not decades until they can agree on a funeral date, but also to save up enough for the precious event. <br />
<br />
Provisionally, an arena made of bamboo has been set up during the previous months, to accommodate the extended family, as well as other guests. Roughly 800 guests will be attending the five-day event. <br />
<br />
With buffalo blood on the highway of souls. The last breath of one of the presented water buffalos marks the official death of a "sick person" during the event of a Rambu Solo' funeral. The soul of the deceased will finally raise to Puya - Heaven. The more buffalos to be sacrificed, the wealthier the family and the faster a soul will find its way to Puya. The first buffalo will be sacrificed right after 12 o’clock when the sun starts setting again – Rambu means smoke, Solo means down. The buffalo’s death will mark the departure of a soul on its way to Puya – Heaven. There, it will be with God and live a fulfilling afterlife. Without the buffalo, the soul won’t find its way. Hence, the more buffalos sacrificed, the faster the souls will find their way to Puya. Regarding Aluk To Dolo – the ancestral belief of the Torajans, 24 is the suggested number of sacrificial buffalos – for most castes. But some guests will bring additional buffalos as a gift. In this case, it’s an unwritten law for the family to pay back a buffalo in the same price range at the next funeral.
    Indonesia-Toraja-Rambu_Solo-Loko_Uru...jpg
  • Rambu Solo Funeral in Lo'Ko Uru, to honor Uru Philippus Possali and Albertina Allo, the elderly couple who died only three months apart from each other. Their families did not wait for long to schedule a date for the funeral. That’s quite rare, others preserve the Toma Kula’ – the sick- up to several years if not decades until they can agree on a funeral date, but also to save up enough for the precious event. <br />
<br />
Provisionally, an arena made of bamboo has been set up during the previous months, to accommodate the extended family, as well as other guests. Roughly 800 guests will be attending the five-day event. <br />
<br />
With buffalo blood on the highway of souls. The last breath of one of the presented water buffalos marks the official death of a "sick person" during the event of a Rambu Solo' funeral. The soul of the deceased will finally raise to Puya - Heaven. The more buffalos to be sacrificed, the wealthier the family and the faster a soul will find its way to Puya. The first buffalo will be sacrificed right after 12 o’clock when the sun starts setting again – Rambu means smoke, Solo means down. The buffalo’s death will mark the departure of a soul on its way to Puya – Heaven. There, it will be with God and live a fulfilling afterlife. Without the buffalo, the soul won’t find its way. Hence, the more buffalos sacrificed, the faster the souls will find their way to Puya. Regarding Aluk To Dolo – the ancestral belief of the Torajans, 24 is the suggested number of sacrificial buffalos – for most castes. But some guests will bring additional buffalos as a gift. In this case, it’s an unwritten law for the family to pay back a buffalo in the same price range at the next funeral.
    Indonesia-Toraja-Rambu_Solo-Loko_Uru...jpg
  • Balle’ graveyard (Panggala, Rindigallo). The family is taking care of their deceased relatives during the ritual of Ma'Nene. The Church puts a lot of effort into driving out the extraordinary spiritual belief, yet without any visible success. However, the ancestral cult is deeply anchored in the culture of the Torajans. These days the dead will be taken out from their coffins to get a new fancy outfit and a decent bone polish. Ma’Nene – care of the ancestors – is probably one of the most bizarre rituals that endure modern times. But the truth is, that for the families behind the disturbing images, Ma’Nene is a simply a sign of love.
    Indonesia-Toraja-Panggala-Balle_Mane...jpg
  • Indonesia - Sulawesi - Tana Toraja. Family house close to Sangallo. <br />
<br />
Yohanis 77 years old (right), past away 2 weeks ago. His wife Alfrida Tottong Tikupadang, 65 years old, passed away 5 years ago (left). Her nails still grew about 5 centimeters after her death. Grandchild stands next to her grandparents. In Toraja, it’s customary to feed the deceased every day, and to keep the corpse cozily beded in a separate room of the family house until the family can afford a proper funeral. In contrast to common beliefs, Torajans treat their beloved relative as if being sick – not dead. <br />
<br />
Only during the rituals of Rambu Solo’ the soul will find its way to Puya – Heaven. Rising to Puya also means to enter the afterlife. And, to continue with the living standards one is used to when being on earth. That’s why it is customary for the Torajans to put a gift in the coffin of their ancestors before locking it into a family mausoleum or the traditional stone grave. <br />
<br />
To the modern world, this intimacy between the living and the dead may seem perverse. In contrast, abandoning the elders, the sheer number of retirement homes and outsourced tomb care including flower pouring service would shock the Torajans.
    Indonesia-Toraja-Yohanis_and_his_wif...jpg
  • Tato Dena’ - One of the last spiritual leaders for Aluk To Dolo (The way of the ancestors). The father of 8 children is quite positive, as he spreads his wisdom about the 7'777 rituals which Aluk To Dolo combines, whenever possible. On the other hand, it’s hard to keep it alive, since there is no written version about Aluk To Dolo – The way of the ancestors. Especially in Indonesia, it is difficult for the minor ethnic groups to keep their beliefs alive. "There must be a god" announced the Indonesian government in 1965. A few years after independence from Dutch occupation, Indonesian citizens were forced to choose from the 5 major world religions: Hinduism, Christianity (Protestantism and Catholicism), Confucianism, Buddhism, and Islam. Everyone living in Indonesia must commit to one of these religions. At first, the Torajans insisted, because Aluk To Dolo wasn’t recognized, they then agreed in 1969 to link Aluk To Dolo as sect to Agama Hindu Dharma (Hinduism). Based on this decision all Torajans, who had not yet converted to Christianity, officially became Hindus. Neither did this affect Toraja's daily life nor did it change the people’s view on Aluk To Dolo. Instead, the Dutch missionaries have been trying to convert Toraja since 1906. Ever since mighty priests convinced Torajan Tominas to move ahead together and focus on one only God. Both parties signed a contract. A treaty which officially allowed the Christians to convert the people of Toraja, but not to abolish its rich culture. Then, together with the Tomina, the bible has been translated into the Torajan-language, the Torajan God Puang Matua became one with the Christian God and the Prophet with the buffalo became Jesus and his donkey. Since then, little has changed. Although the majority crowds the church on Sundays, the customs and traditions are preserved in Toraja. And as long as the remaining Tominas pass on the wisdom to their children, just then Aluk To Dolo may have a chance to survive.
    Indonesia-Toraja-Tomina_Tator_Dena-4...jpg
  • Tato Dena’ - One of the last spiritual leaders for Aluk To Dolo (The way of the ancestors). The father of 8 children is quite positive, as he spreads his wisdom about the 7'777 rituals which Aluk To Dolo combines, whenever possible. On the other hand, it’s hard to keep it alive, since there is no written version about Aluk To Dolo – The way of the ancestors. Especially in Indonesia, it is difficult for the minor ethnic groups to keep their beliefs alive. "There must be a god" announced the Indonesian government in 1965. A few years after independence from Dutch occupation, Indonesian citizens were forced to choose from the 5 major world religions: Hinduism, Christianity (Protestantism and Catholicism), Confucianism, Buddhism, and Islam. Everyone living in Indonesia must commit to one of these religions. At first, the Torajans insisted, because Aluk To Dolo wasn’t recognized, they then agreed in 1969 to link Aluk To Dolo as sect to Agama Hindu Dharma (Hinduism). Based on this decision all Torajans, who had not yet converted to Christianity, officially became Hindus. Neither did this affect Toraja's daily life nor did it change the people’s view on Aluk To Dolo. Instead, the Dutch missionaries have been trying to convert Toraja since 1906. Ever since mighty priests convinced Torajan Tominas to move ahead together and focus on one only God. Both parties signed a contract. A treaty which officially allowed the Christians to convert the people of Toraja, but not to abolish its rich culture. Then, together with the Tomina, the bible has been translated into the Torajan-language, the Torajan God Puang Matua became one with the Christian God and the Prophet with the buffalo became Jesus and his donkey. Since then, little has changed. Although the majority crowds the church on Sundays, the customs and traditions are preserved in Toraja. And as long as the remaining Tominas pass on the wisdom to their children, just then Aluk To Dolo may have a chance to survive.
    Indonesia-Toraja-Tomina_Tator_Dena-5...jpg
  • The harbor city Keelung has already outmaneuvered many other Taiwanese cities as ’the place to be’ during Ghost Month, and one reason for this claim is its packed event calendar throughout the month. With prosperty taking its toll on society's behaviour and beliefs,  the future of Ghost Month remains uncertain. People still in very narrow space, although many fancy all sorts of luxury like sports cars et cetera.
    Taiwan-Keelung-772.jpg
  • The harbor city Keelung has already outmaneuvered many other Taiwanese cities as ’the place to be’ during Ghost Month, and one reason for this claim is its packed event calendar throughout the month. With modernity taking its toll on society's behaviour and beliefs,  the future of Ghost Month remains uncertain.
    Taiwan-Keelung-440.jpg
  • A relative of Nene Datu who passed away in 1982 snaps a selfie of Nene Datu, Yuanita (right) and Jambang (left). Nene Datu will be burried later on together with her dauthter Polina (died 2nd), and Dani (died 3rd) all together in the same coffin. Ma'Nene is always a good occasion for younger relatives to meet their ancestors for the first time - and of course, to take some selfies with them. While post mortem photography is a disappearing culture (or already lost culture) within most developed countries, in certain parts of Toraja this tradition has been be preserved well over the years.
    Indonesia-Toraja-Panggala_Manene-Nen...jpg
  • Indonesia - Sulawesi - Tana Toraja. Graveyard in Panggala, Rindigallo.<br />
<br />
A relative of Nene Datu who passed away in 1982 snaps a selfie of Nene Datu, Yuanita (right) and Jambang (left). Nene Datu will be burried later on together with her dauthter Polina (died 2nd), and Dani (died 3rd) all together in the same coffin. Ma'Nene is always a good occasion for younger relatives to meet their ancestors for the first time - and of course, to take some selfies with them. While post mortem photography is a disappearing culture (or already lost culture) within most developed countries, in certain parts of Toraja this tradition has been be preserved well over the years.
    Indonesia-Toraja-Panggala_Manene-Nen...jpg
  • Todeng died in 2009. He has been burried with his purse and favorite glasses<br />
<br />
The Ma'Nene Ritual is about to start. The coffins have been dragged out of the family's mausoleum. After cleaning the dead body, clothes will be changed before having a sunbath. Rising to Puya (Heaven) also means to enter the afterlife. And, to continue with the living standards one is used to when being on earth. That’s why it is customary for the Torajans to put a gift in the coffin of their ancestors before locking it into a family mausoleum or the traditional stone grave. For some, a bracelet or a watch would do, while the highest cast might even bury a diamond with their loved ones. Nowadays, many are afraid their gifts get stolen. Local police authorities are even investigating cases of stolen mummies. The rumor spread that there’s a high demand from foreign antique-collectors based in Bali. Supposedly, they’re hiring thieves from the area to steel bodies for their private exhibitions. Not to forget about the missing baby mummies who apparently are used for occult medicine.
    Indonesia-Toraja-Panggala_Manene-Ne_...jpg
  • Indonesia - Sulawesi - Tana Toraja Indonesia - Tana Toraja
    Indonesia-Toraja-Panggala_Manene-Mar...jpg
  • Indonesia - Tana Toraja Relatives visit Nene' Tiku who passed away 3 days ago in the age of 106. Her relatives believe, Nene' Tiku is only sick - not dead (Toma Kula'). Torajans learn from a very young age to deal with death and to accept it as part of the journey. In Toraja, it’ is customary to feed the deceased every day and to keep the corpses cozily bedded in a separate room of the family house until the family can afford a proper funeral which easily costs 50’000 to 500’000 USD depending on the caste of the family and how may buffalos they have to sacrifice.
    Indonesia-Toraja-Sereale-Funeral_Nen...jpg
  • Indonesia - Sulawesi - Tana Toraja. Graveyard (Panggala, Rindigallo). The Ma'Nene Ritual is about to start as the coffins are dragged out of the family mausoleum
    Indonesia-Toraja-Panggala_Manene-400.jpg
  • Indonesia - Sulawesi - Tana Toraja
    Indonesia-Toraja-Yohanis_and_his_wif...jpg
  • Indonesia - Sulawesi - Tana Toraja
    Indonesia-Toraja-Panggala_Manene-Ne ...jpg
  • Relatives visit Nene' Tiku who passed away 3 days ago in the age of 106. Her relatives believe, Nene' Tiku is only sick - not dead (Toma Kula'). Torajans learn from a very young age to deal with death and to accept it as part of the journey. In Toraja, it’ is customary to feed the deceased every day and to keep the corpses cozily bedded in a separate room of the family house until the family can afford a proper funeral which easily costs 50’000 to 500’000 USD depending on the caste of the family and how may buffalos they have to sacrifice.
    Indonesia-Toraja-Sereale-Funeral_Nen...jpg
  • Indonesia - Tana Toraja Relatives visit Nene' Tiku who passed away 3 days ago in the age of 106. Her relatives believe, Nene' Tiku is only sick - not dead (Toma Kula'). Torajans learn from a very young age to deal with death and to accept it as part of the journey. In Toraja, it’ is customary to feed the deceased every day and to keep the corpses cozily bedded in a separate room of the family house until the family can afford a proper funeral which easily costs 50’000 to 500’000 USD depending on the caste of the family and how may buffalos they have to sacrifice.
    Indonesia-Toraja-Sereale-Funeral_Nen...jpg
  • Indonesia - Tana Toraja Relatives visit Nene' Tiku who passed away 3 days ago in the age of 106. Her relatives believe, Nene' Tiku is only sick - not dead (Toma Kula'). Torajans learn from a very young age to deal with death and to accept it as part of the journey. In Toraja, it’ is customary to feed the deceased every day and to keep the corpses cozily bedded in a separate room of the family house until the family can afford a proper funeral which easily costs 50’000 to 500’000 USD depending on the caste of the family and how may buffalos they have to sacrifice.
    Indonesia-Toraja-Sereale-Funeral_Nen...jpg
  • Indonesia - Sulawesi - Tana Toraja. Graveyard (Panggala, Rindigallo). The Ma'Nene Ritual is about to start as the coffins are dragged out of the family mausoleum
    Indonesia-Toraja-Panggala_Manene-147.jpg
  • The Ma'Nene Ritual is about to start. The coffins have been dragged out of the family's mausoleum. After cleaning the dead body, clothes will be changed before having a sunbath. Rising to Puya (Heaven) also means to enter the afterlife. And, to continue with the living standards one is used to when being on earth. That’s why it is customary for the Torajans to put a gift in the coffin of their ancestors before locking it into a family mausoleum or the traditional stone grave. For some, a bracelet or a watch would do, while the highest cast might even bury a diamond with their loved ones. Nowadays, many are afraid their gifts get stolen. Local police authorities are even investigating cases of stolen mummies. The rumor spread that there’s a high demand from foreign antique-collectors based in Bali. Supposedly, they’re hiring thieves from the area to steel bodies for their private exhibitions. Not to forget about the missing baby mummies who apparently are used for occult medicine.
    Indonesia-Toraja-Panggala_Manene-297.jpg
  • Indonesia - Sulawesi - Tana Toraja. Graveyard in Panggala, Rindigallo.<br />
<br />
Grandpa "Ne Pua", passed away with 85 years. He has been buried in his favorite suit, together with hes favourite belongings, like the mobile phone and glasses. <br />
<br />
The Ma'Nene Ritual is about to start. The coffins have been dragged out of the family's mausoleum. After cleaning the dead body, clothes will be changed before having a sunbath. Rising to Puya (Heaven) also means to enter the afterlife. And, to continue with the living standards one is used to when being on earth. That’s why it is customary for the Torajans to put a gift in the coffin of their ancestors before locking it into a family mausoleum or the traditional stone grave. For some, a bracelet or a watch would do, while the highest cast might even bury a diamond with their loved ones. Nowadays, many are afraid their gifts get stolen. Local police authorities are even investigating cases of stolen mummies. The rumor spread that there’s a high demand from foreign antique-collectors based in Bali. Supposedly, they’re hiring thieves from the area to steel bodies for their private exhibitions. Not to forget about the missing baby mummies who apparently are used for occult medicine.
    Indonesia-Toraja-Panggala_Manene-20.jpg
  • The Ma'Nene Ritual is about to start. The coffins have been dragged out of the family's mausoleum. After cleaning the dead body, clothes will be changed before having a sunbath. Rising to Puya (Heaven) also means to enter the afterlife. And, to continue with the living standards one is used to when being on earth. That’s why it is customary for the Torajans to put a gift in the coffin of their ancestors before locking it into a family mausoleum or the traditional stone grave. For some, a bracelet or a watch would do, while the highest cast might even bury a diamond with their loved ones. Nowadays, many are afraid their gifts get stolen. Local police authorities are even investigating cases of stolen mummies. The rumor spread that there’s a high demand from foreign antique-collectors based in Bali. Supposedly, they’re hiring thieves from the area to steel bodies for their private exhibitions. Not to forget about the missing baby mummies who apparently are used for occult medicine.
    Indonesia-Toraja-Panggala_Manene-293.jpg
  • Indonesia - Tana Toraja
    Indonesia-Toraja-Panggala_Manene-Ne_...jpg
  • Relatives are cleaning Martha Rantelimbong, who passed away 2 years ago during the event of Ma'Nene (Care of Ancestors). After the cleaning, it’s time for her to take a rest and sunbathe for a little.
    Indonesia-Toraja-Panggala_Manene-Sar...jpg
  • Indonesia - Sulawesi - Tana Toraja
    Indonesia-Toraja-Pong_Masak_and_Son_...jpg
  • Indonesia - Sulawesi - Tana Toraja
    Indonesia-Toraja-Panggala_Manene-Tan...jpg
  • Indonesia - Sulawesi - Tana Toraja
    Indonesia-Toraja-Panggala_Manene-Ne_...jpg
  • Indonesia - Sulawesi - Tana Toraja
    Indonesia-Toraja-Panggala_Manene-Ne_...jpg
  • Indonesia - Sulawesi - Tana Toraja
    Indonesia-Toraja-Panggala_Manene-Ne_...jpg
  • Relatives presenting Martha Rantelimbong, who passed away 2 years ago during the event of Ma'Nene (Care of Ancestors). As soon as the traditional coffins are dragged out the tomb, the relatives put on surgical masks. After the cleaning, it’s time for her to take a rest and sunbathe for a little.
    Indonesia-Toraja-Panggala_Manene-Mar...jpg
  • Indonesia - Tana Toraja Relatives visit Nene' Tiku who passed away 3 days ago in the age of 106. Her relatives believe, Nene' Tiku is only sick - not dead (Toma Kula'). Torajans learn from a very young age to deal with death and to accept it as part of the journey. In Toraja, it’ is customary to feed the deceased every day and to keep the corpses cozily bedded in a separate room of the family house until the family can afford a proper funeral which easily costs 50’000 to 500’000 USD depending on the caste of the family and how may buffalos they have to sacrifice.
    Indonesia-Toraja-Sereale-Funeral_Nen...jpg
  • Indonesia - Tana Toraja Relatives visit Nene' Tiku who passed away 3 days ago in the age of 106. Her relatives believe, Nene' Tiku is only sick - not dead (Toma Kula'). Torajans learn from a very young age to deal with death and to accept it as part of the journey. In Toraja, it’ is customary to feed the deceased every day and to keep the corpses cozily bedded in a separate room of the family house until the family can afford a proper funeral which easily costs 50’000 to 500’000 USD depending on the caste of the family and how may buffalos they have to sacrifice.
    Indonesia-Toraja-Sereale-Funeral_Nen...jpg
  • Indonesia - Tana Toraja Relatives visit Nene' Tiku who passed away 3 days ago in the age of 106. Her relatives believe, Nene' Tiku is only sick - not dead (Toma Kula'). Torajans learn from a very young age to deal with death and to accept it as part of the journey. In Toraja, it’ is customary to feed the deceased every day and to keep the corpses cozily bedded in a separate room of the family house until the family can afford a proper funeral which easily costs 50’000 to 500’000 USD depending on the caste of the family and how may buffalos they have to sacrifice.
    Indonesia-Toraja-Sereale-Funeral_Nen...jpg
  • Indonesia - Tana Toraja Relatives visit Nene' Tiku who passed away 3 days ago in the age of 106. Her relatives believe, Nene' Tiku is only sick - not dead (Toma Kula'). Torajans learn from a very young age to deal with death and to accept it as part of the journey. In Toraja, it’ is customary to feed the deceased every day and to keep the corpses cozily bedded in a separate room of the family house until the family can afford a proper funeral which easily costs 50’000 to 500’000 USD depending on the caste of the family and how may buffalos they have to sacrifice.
    Indonesia-Toraja-Sereale-Funeral_Nen...jpg
  • The Ma'Nene Ritual is about to start. The coffin has been dragged out of the family's mausoleum. After cleaning the dead body, clothes will be changed before having a sunbath. Rising to Puya (Heaven) also means to enter the afterlife. And, to continue with the living standards one is used to when being on earth. That’s why it is customary for the Torajans to put a gift in the coffin of their ancestors before locking it into a family mausoleum or the traditional stone grave. For some, a bracelet or a watch would do, while the highest cast might even bury a diamond with their loved ones. Nowadays, many are afraid their gifts get stolen. Local police authorities are even investigating cases of stolen mummies. The rumor spread that there’s a high demand from foreign antique-collectors based in Bali. Supposedly, they’re hiring thieves from the area to steel bodies for their private exhibitions. Not to forget about the missing baby mummies who apparently are used for occult medicine.
    Indonesia-Toraja-Panggala_Manene-568.jpg
  • Indonesia - Sulawesi - Tana Toraja
    Indonesia-Toraja-Panggala_Manene-Mar...jpg
  • Indonesia - Sulawesi - Tana Toraja
    Indonesia-Toraja-Panggala_Manene-Mar...jpg
  • The Ma'Nene Ritual is about to start. The coffins have been dragged out of the family's mausoleum. After cleaning the dead body, clothes will be changed before having a sunbath. Rising to Puya (Heaven) also means to enter the afterlife. And, to continue with the living standards one is used to when being on earth. That’s why it is customary for the Torajans to put a gift in the coffin of their ancestors before locking it into a family mausoleum or the traditional stone grave. For some, a bracelet or a watch would do, while the highest cast might even bury a diamond with their loved ones. Nowadays, many are afraid their gifts get stolen. Local police authorities are even investigating cases of stolen mummies. The rumor spread that there’s a high demand from foreign antique-collectors based in Bali. Supposedly, they’re hiring thieves from the area to steel bodies for their private exhibitions. Not to forget about the missing baby mummies who apparently are used for occult medicine.
    Indonesia-Toraja-Panggala-Balle_Mane...jpg
  • Balle’ graveyard (Panggala, Rindigallo). Two weeks ago, the local shaman had been on duty at the graveyard of Balle’. Holding the Massabu ritual he worshipped the spirits and asked for permission to open the old tomb. A chicken, A pig, and a dog have been executed in front of its gate. Apparently, the spirits agreed. Today is the chosen day to move roughly 50 coffins over to a new mausoleum, since everyone is already here, this day also provides a good opportunity for most families to take care of their ancestors. The coffins have been opened, and the routine takes off almost simultaneously, checking old gifts, cutting away sticky clothes, make the body stand to dry, dressing them up, and of course taking some selfies.
    Indonesia-Toraja-Panggala-Balle_Mane...jpg
  • Indonesia - Sulawesi - Tana Toraja Indonesia - Tana Toraja
    Indonesia-Toraja-Panggala-Balle_Mane...jpg
  • Ne Lamba died 2007, 60-70 years old nobody knows, since back in the days there was no birth certificate. Ne Kalo is proudly presenting his mummiefied brother as it is customary for the Torajans. Luckily the weather is quite okay, otherwise the family would have to wait until next year to take care of their ancestors. It's the last day of August, and after this day, believing in the prinicpals of Aluk To Dolo, the families are not allowed anymore to open the graves.
    Indonesia-Toraja-Panggala_Manene-Ne_...jpg
  • Indonesia - Sulawesi - Tana Toraja Indonesia - Tana Toraja
    Indonesia-Toraja-Panggala-Balle_Mane...jpg
  • Indonesia - Sulawesi - Tana Toraja
    Indonesia-Toraja-Panggala-Balle_Mane...jpg
  • Indonesia - Sulawesi - Tana Toraja Blind date - This is the first time the four cousins see their dead relative who passed away 10 years ago because of sickness. Back then, there were no proper roads in the mountainous area of Toraja, so it was too late to bring the 6 months old baby to the hospital for a checkup.
    Indonesia-Toraja-Panggala_Manene-nam...jpg
  • Two young relatives watch the pair mumies whilst they're given a sunbathe. The lady in the beige shirt is Nene "Marta" Duma: she passed away 2008 while Todeng next to her died a year after in 2009.
    Indonesia-Toraja-Panggala_Manene-Nen...jpg
  • During the event of Ma'Nene (Care of Ancestors) Daughter Merlin cries over her mother Martha Rantelimbong, who passed away 2 years ago. As soon as the traditional coffins are dragged out the tomb, the relatives put on surgical masks. After the cleaning, it’s time for her to take a rest and sunbathe for a little.
    Indonesia-Toraja-Panggala_Manene-Mar...jpg
  • Indonesia - Sulawesi - Tana Toraja
    Indonesia-Toraja-Panggala_Manene-956.jpg
  • Indonesia - Sulawesi - Tana Toraja. Balle’ graveyard (Panggala, Rindigallo). Usually, just during sunny weather, the deceased are taken out for Ma'Nene Ritual.
    Indonesia-Toraja-Panggala-Balle_Mane...jpg
  • Indonesia - Sulawesi - Tana Toraja Blind date - This is the first time the four cousins see their dead relative who passed away 10 years ago because of sickness. Back then, there were no proper roads in the mountainous area of Toraja, so it was too late to bring the 6 months old baby to the hospital for a checkup.
    Indonesia-Toraja-Panggala_Manene-nam...jpg
  • Indonesia - Sulawesi - Tana Toraja
    Indonesia-Toraja-Tomina_Tator_Dena-4...jpg
  • Indonesia - Sulawesi - Tana Toraja
    Indonesia-Toraja-Tomina_Tator_Dena-3...jpg
  • Indonesia - Sulawesi - Tana Toraja
    Indonesia-Toraja-Tomina_Tator_Dena-2...jpg
  • Relatives visit Nene' Tiku who passed away 3 days ago in the age of 106. Her relatives believe, Nene' Tiku is only sick - not dead (Toma Kula'). Torajans learn from a very young age to deal with death and to accept it as part of the journey. In Toraja, it’ is customary to feed the deceased every day and to keep the corpses cozily bedded in a separate room of the family house until the family can afford a proper funeral which easily costs 50’000 to 500’000 USD depending on the caste of the family and how may buffalos they have to sacrifice.
    Indonesia-Toraja-Sereale-Funeral_Nen...jpg
  • Relatives visit Nene' Tiku who passed away 3 days ago in the age of 106. Her relatives believe, Nene' Tiku is only sick - not dead (Toma Kula'). Torajans learn from a very young age to deal with death and to accept it as part of the journey. In Toraja, it’ is customary to feed the deceased every day and to keep the corpses cozily bedded in a separate room of the family house until the family can afford a proper funeral which easily costs 50’000 to 500’000 USD depending on the caste of the family and how may buffalos they have to sacrifice.
    Indonesia-Toraja-Sereale-Funeral_Nen...jpg
  • Indonesia - Sulawesi - Tana Toraja
    Indonesia-Toraja-Rambu_Solo-Loko_Uru...jpg
  • Indonesia - Sulawesi - Tana Toraja
    Indonesia-Toraja-Rambu_Solo-Loko_Uru...jpg
  • Indonesia - Sulawesi - Tana Toraja
    Indonesia-Toraja-Rambu_Solo-Loko_Uru...jpg
  • Indonesia - Sulawesi - Tana Toraja
    Indonesia-Toraja-Rambu_Solo-Loko_Uru...jpg
  • Rambu Solo Funeral in Lo'Ko Uru, to honor Uru Philippus Possali and Albertina Allo, the elderly couple who died only three months apart from each other. Their families did not wait for long to schedule a date for the funeral. That’s quite rare, others preserve the Toma Kula’ – the sick- up to several years if not decades until they can agree on a funeral date, but also to save up enough for the precious event. <br />
<br />
Provisionally, an arena made of bamboo has been set up during the previous months, to accommodate the extended family, as well as other guests. Roughly 800 guests will be attending the five-day event.
    Indonesia-Toraja-Rambu_Solo-Loko_Uru...jpg
  • Indonesia - Sulawesi - Tana Toraja
    Indonesia-Toraja-Rambu_Solo-Loko_Uru...jpg
  • Indonesia - Sulawesi - Tana Toraja
    Indonesia-Toraja-Rambu_Solo-Loko_Uru...jpg
  • Indonesia - Sulawesi - Tana Toraja
    Indonesia-Toraja-Rambu_Solo-Loko_Uru...jpg
  • Rambu Solo Funeral in Lo'Ko Uru, to honor Uru Philippus Possali and Albertina Allo, the elderly couple who died only three months apart from each other. Their families did not wait for long to schedule a date for the funeral. That’s quite rare, others preserve the Toma Kula’ – the sick- up to several years if not decades until they can agree on a funeral date, but also to save up enough for the precious event. <br />
<br />
Provisionally, an arena made of bamboo has been set up during the previous months, to accommodate the extended family, as well as other guests. Roughly 800 guests will be attending the five-day event.
    Indonesia-Toraja-Rambu_Solo-Loko_Uru...jpg
  • Indonesia - Sulawesi - Tana Toraja
    Indonesia-Toraja-Rambu_Solo-Loko_Uru...jpg
  • Indonesia - Sulawesi - Tana Toraja
    Indonesia-Toraja-Pong_Masak-6.jpg
  • Indonesia - Sulawesi - Tana Toraja
    Indonesia-Toraja-Pong_Masak_and_Son_...jpg
  • Indonesia - Sulawesi - Tana Toraja
    Indonesia-Toraja-Panggala_Manene-Tod...jpg
  • Showing off the dead after changing their clothes is a common thing. Many youngsters have never seen their dead relatives alive. They will use this precious reunion to take some group photos or selfies with them.<br />
<br />
Thanksgiving day. Ma’Nene is officially coming to an end. The families will soon start with the cultivation of new rice crops, the teens will go back studying in Makassar, and some will continue their work in the mines to earn money for the next funeral.
    Indonesia-Toraja-Panggala_Manene-Tod...jpg
  • Indonesia - Sulawesi - Tana Toraja
    Indonesia-Toraja-Panggala_Manene-Tod...jpg
  • Indonesia - Sulawesi - Tana Toraja
    Indonesia-Toraja-Panggala_Manene-Tan...jpg
  • Songa passed away more than 40 years ago. When he was 70. One of his nephews lights the cigarette for the sake fun. It's common for the Torajans to offer their dead relatives betel nuts or cigarettes
    Indonesia-Toraja-Panggala_Manene-Son...jpg
  • Indonesia - Sulawesi - Tana Toraja
    Indonesia-Toraja-Panggala_Manene-Son...jpg
  • Indonesia - Sulawesi - Tana Toraja. Graveyard in Panggala, Rindigallo.<br />
<br />
Relatives are cleaning Martha Rantelimbong, who passed away 2 years ago.<br />
<br />
As soon as the traditional coffins are dragged out the tomb, the relatives put on surgical masks. After the cleaning, it’s time for her to take a rest and sunbathe for a little.
    Indonesia-Toraja-Panggala_Manene-Sar...jpg
  • Indonesia - Sulawesi - Tana Toraja
    Indonesia-Toraja-Panggala_Manene-Nen...jpg
  • Farwell gifts - After the cleaning ritual of Ma'Nene, relatives honor their deceased grandfather Ne Todeng who died in 2009 by giving him back his favourite glasses and leather purse. It’s customary for the Torajans to put gifts in the coffin, such as a bracelet or a watch. Others might even bury a diamond with their loved ones. Hence, grave robbery often occurs, and some Torajans keep it as a secret what they will give along. He has been buried in his favourite shirt together with his favourite belongings. With the bodies having been dutifully cleaned, they are carefully returned to the mausoleum.
    Indonesia-Toraja-Panggala_Manene-Ne_...jpg
  • Martha Rantelimbong, who passed away 2 years ago. As soon as the traditional coffins are dragged out the tomb, the relatives put on surgical masks. After the cleaning, it’s time for her to take a rest outside and sunbathe for a little. Then she will be given back her favorite pair of glasses and the coffin will be put back in the tomb.
    Indonesia-Toraja-Panggala_Manene-Ne_...jpg
  • Indonesia - Sulawesi - Tana Toraja
    Indonesia-Toraja-Panggala_Manene-Ne_...jpg
  • Indonesia - Sulawesi - Tana Toraja
    Indonesia-Toraja-Panggala_Manene-Ne_...jpg
  • Indonesia - Sulawesi - Tana Toraja
    Indonesia-Toraja-Panggala_Manene-Ne_...jpg
  • Indonesia - Sulawesi - Tana Toraja
    Indonesia-Toraja-Panggala_Manene-Ne_...jpg
  • Indonesia - Sulawesi - Tana Toraja
    Indonesia-Toraja-Panggala_Manene-Ne_...jpg
  • Indonesia - Sulawesi - Tana Toraja
    Indonesia-Toraja-Panggala_Manene-Ne_...jpg
  • Christina Bane', passed away in the age of 94. <br />
<br />
Farwell gifts - After the cleaning ritual of Ma'Nene, relatives honor their deceased by giving them back their favourite gadgets like glasses or the leather purse. It’s customary for the Torajans to put gifts in the coffin, such as a bracelet or a watch. Others might even bury a diamond with their loved ones. Hence, grave robbery often occurs, and some Torajans keep it as a secret what they will give along. She has been buried in his favourite shirt together with her favourite belongings. With the bodies having been dutifully cleaned, they are carefully returned to the mausoleum.<br />
<br />
Farwell gifts - After the cleaning ritual of Ma'Nene, relatives honor their deceased by giving them back their favourite gadgets like glasses or the leather purse. It’s customary for the Torajans to put gifts in the coffin, such as a bracelet or a watch. Others might even bury a diamond with their loved ones. Hence, grave robbery often occurs, and some Torajans keep it as a secret what they will give along. He has been buried in his favourite shirt together with his favourite belongings. With the bodies having been dutifully cleaned, they are carefully returned to the mausoleum.
    Indonesia-Toraja-Panggala_Manene-Ne_...jpg
  • Indonesia - Sulawesi - Tana Toraja
    Indonesia-Toraja-Panggala_Manene-nam...jpg
  • Martha Rantelimbong, who passed away 2 years ago. As soon as the traditional coffins are dragged out the tomb, the relatives put on surgical masks. After the cleaning, it’s time for her to take a rest outside and sunbathe for a little. Then she will be given back her favorite pair of glasses and the coffin will be put back in the tomb.
    Indonesia-Toraja-Panggala_Manene-Mar...jpg
  • Martha Rantelimbong passed away 2 years ago. Her husband Yohannes Kara Eng gently cleans her face.
    Indonesia-Toraja-Panggala_Manene-Mar...jpg
  • Indonesia - Sulawesi - Tana Toraja. A relative is dressing up his ancestor during the ritual of Ma'Nene
    Indonesia-Toraja-Panggala_Manene-Lep...jpg
  • Indonesia - Sulawesi - Tana Toraja
    Indonesia-Toraja-Panggala_Manene-Lep...jpg
  • Indonesia - Sulawesi - Tana Toraja
    Indonesia-Toraja-Panggala_Manene-All...jpg
  • Indonesia - Sulawesi - Tana Toraja
    Indonesia-Toraja-Panggala_Manene-All...jpg
  • Indonesia - Sulawesi - Tana Toraja
    Indonesia-Toraja-Panggala_Manene-All...jpg
  • Indonesia - Sulawesi - Tana Toraja
    Indonesia-Toraja-Panggala_Manene-106...jpg
  • Indonesia - Sulawesi - Tana Toraja
    Indonesia-Toraja-Panggala_Manene-999.jpg
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