Peresean – Sasak Stick Fighting

Peresean pits two pepadu fighters against each other armed with a rattan stick and a buffalo-hide shield, with a live gamelan ensemble driving the rhythm. It began as a rain-calling ritual and a test of a warrior’s courage; today it is performed at celebrations across the island.

It is loud, fast and surprisingly good-natured – fighters typically embrace at the end. Independence Day on 17 August is one of the most reliable times to catch it. More on the traditions behind it in our Sasak culture guide.