Peresehan is a fight traditional contest in Lombok fascinated by physical prowess and heroic trials of strength. This particular man to man combat is a great favorite all over Lombok. Usually held in the late afternoon in the open air, a huge crowd – all man part from the occasional curious female traveler – gathers together to watch two men battle it out with long rattan staves, protected only by small rectangular shields made from cow or buffalo hide. The staves are ceremoniously handed around the crowd. With great drama the gamelan starts to play and two men, dressed in exquisite finery featuring turbans or head scarves and wide sashes at the waist. Feign the movements of the contest about to be fought.

Having shown everyone in Lombok how it is supposed to be done, the two men look around the crowd for contestants, who are carefully chosen to match each other as closely as possible in height and strength. Anyone can be chosen; some perform several times during the afternoon, other refuse to take part at all. While it is quite permissible to refuse, it is clearly of great status to win. Those who agree to participate must quickly find scarves to wrap around their heads and waists if the aren’t already wearing them (the head gear and waist sash are supposed to have magical protective power) then they take off their shirts and shoes, roll up their trouser, pick up their staves and shields and begin laying into each other.

Peresehan Gallery

Before the event ( Peresehan Contest), as part of the spectacle and atmosphere, a greasy pole contest is often held. Two all poles are erected, topped by a gaily decorated, large wooden wheel with a number of goodies dangling from it, such as cloth, bags and shorts. Amid much mirth and merriment two small boys attempt to clamber up the slippery pole and untie the loot.