Bakar Naga Ritual, Cap Go Meh Celebration Closing Tradition In Singkawang

JAKARTA In closing the series of Chinese New Year and Cap Go Meh celebrations in Singkawang City, nine dragon replicas that previously participated in the carnival were finally burned in a sacred ritual. This tradition is believed to be a way to return the dragon spirit to its place of origin.

"After going through various processions in the Dragon Carnival and Barongsai at the peak of the Cap Go Meh Celebration in Singkawang City which coincides with the 15th day of the Chinese New Year 2576, now on the 16th day, it is time for the dragons to return to the sky," said Chairman of the Chinese New Year Committee and Cap Go Meh Singkawang City, Bun Chin Thong, as quoted by ANTARA.

He explained that this dragon burning procession is part of the Chinese community's trust, where a replica of a dragon that has followed an eye-open ritual is considered to have a dragon spirit in charge of clearing the road from bad energy. After the task is complete, the spirit must be returned to its nature through arson.

Before being burned, the dragon replica was first brought back to the temple or temple where they underwent the ritual of opening their eyes. This is the final moment of separation before the dragon is finally returned to the sky through a burning fire in Pekong Kulor.

"This ritual must be followed by a dragon who has undergone an eye-open procession. Meanwhile, a replica of a dragon that is only used for entertainment without participating in the ritual is not required to be burned," he explained.

Public enthusiasm is very high in watching this procession. Thousands of people packed the Pekong Kulor area to see this sacred moment firsthand.

The flames that burn dragon replicas create spectacular views, accompanied by prayers and hopes that the coming year will bring good luck and prosperity to all.