Cockfights can be considered a form of worship. It is part of an event that takes place in the courtyard of public use at the beginning of a complex, called the Wantilan.
After a match has been set, the cock owner or handlers will gather his birds and search for potential opponents. Once a potential adversary is located then the handlers both sit down and swap their birds.
Cultural Significance
Cockfighting is a wildly popular game which is infused with the religious and social significance of many of its participants. Cockfighting is more than the sport of cock owners. They regard their cocks as extensions of themselves and feel proud having their birds win. It is believed that the winning cock has phallic symbols which is why participating in a fight can be considered to be a sign of masculinity.
A juru kembar can be described as a professional that manages cocks both before and after a fight. There is a vast collection of tricks for reviving the animals, which include plucking massaging, and gently ruffling their feathers. A juru kembar that is good quality will be worth his weight in gold for the person who owns it.
Bettors voice their opinions during cockfights by repeating the names of colors in rhythmic. In most cases, the bettors with the highest reputation are identified as “timing officials” and their word is an official rule when it comes to the arena. Clifford Geertz, an influential Anthropologist, wrote an interesting article titled Deep Play daga88: notes on the Balinese Cockfight.
The tradition of Cockfighting
The interplay between tradition, religion and social norms is intriguingly demonstrated by culture of cockfighting. Although it’s crucial to recognize and respect these cultural events but it’s equally important to tackle any ethical questions.
The cockfight is an activity which pits the roosters from two owners against each other in a ring called a cockpit. The winner is determined after an intense fight which typically lasts until a bird dies or suffers a serious injury. There are many spectators who attend cockfights where bets are placed on the result of the game. The matches could see thousands of dollars change hands.
It is thought to be a vital aspect of Balinese tradition, as well as one of the best ways to earn recognition in the local community. It is also the source of revenue for the contestants, which make money through betting upon their own cocks. Before a cockfight begins animals are trained to fight by having their hairs and wattles dubbed or dusting. The natural spurs of the animal, which may reach several inches in length, are cut off with a blade.
Cockfighting rituals are prevalent in Southeast Asia
Cockfighting is often interwoven into Southeast Asian tradition, and it is associated with religion or communal rituals. The Wala Meron Festival which takes place to this day is a cockfighting event, however it also reveals the rich culture of this region. This event celebrates history, culture, and community harmony.
In Bali Cockfighting has been elevated to a religious tradition which is why it is protected from nationwide ban which has been in place since. It is the reason why cockfighting remains in existence here and across Indonesia however it’s not as well-known.
Combat cocks are trained and specifically bred to increase strength and endurance. The cocks used in combat get steroids, adrenaline boosters and are fitted with ears, earlobes and combs removed for a more aggressive and well-behaved behavior. When fighting handlers make use of their tools to stimulate birds into fighting. They also use their combs or poke their beaks to bring the birds into a fighting mode. The cocks that don’t win are still in pain.
Spiritual practices
In Bali, cockfighting is not only a sport but also is a sacred ritual called Tabuh Rah. The ritual is a religious one, where the cocks will spill blood onto the floor in order to dispel evil spirits. The superstitious owner of fighting cocks does this rite with prayer and mantras. They wear a variety of jewelry, spurs of steel, and carry a variety of accessories.
Additionally, the cocks receive special meals as well as water to fight. The rituals are designed to help keep the cocks in good performance for fighting. They are also fed a special rice that can increase the strength of birds and the endurance. The fights may last for one minute or just a few minutes and require a great deal of wings and beaks. The spectators are captivated by the moaning, cheering and bellowing. There are also bets. The final result is that one cock wins and the crowd sings. This is a truly amazing scene.