TULUNGAGUNG – The annual Ulur-Ulur ceremony in Tulungagung has once again drawn attention as a symbol of gratitude and a growing pillar of cultural tourism in the region.
Held at Telaga Buret in Campurdarat on April 24, the traditional ritual brought together residents from four villages, Ngentrong, Sawo, Gedangan, and Gamping. The ceremony reflects a long-standing expression of gratitude for the area’s abundant and sustainable water sources.
Acting Regent Ahmad Baharudin said the Ulur-Ulur ceremony carries deeper meaning beyond a cultural event. “This is not just a ritual. It is a tradition that connects human life with nature. We must preserve it to ensure sustainability for the future,” he said.
Moreover, he stressed that environmental preservation requires collective awareness. Nature, he added, continues to provide essential resources for daily life. Therefore, communities must take responsibility for maintaining ecological balance.
At the same time, local authorities are working to elevate the ceremony as a tourism attraction. The Ulur-Ulur ceremony has already been officially recognized as part of Tulungagung’s annual event calendar. As a result, officials expect stronger public interest and higher visitor numbers in the coming years.
“We hold this event every year, and it is now an official regional agenda. Going forward, we hope it becomes more vibrant and widely known,” Baharudin said.
Meanwhile, Head of the Culture and Tourism Office Mohamad Ardian Candra emphasized ongoing efforts to preserve and promote the tradition. He said his office remains committed to strengthening its presentation and expanding its reach.
“We fully support this cultural ritual. In the future, we will continue to develop it so the tradition remains alive and relevant,” Candra said.
In addition to the main ritual, traditional performances such as Tari Lelangit and Gesang added depth to the event. These performances not only entertained visitors but also carried educational value.
Furthermore, artists used the stage to highlight the beauty and meaning of traditional arts. “Through these performances, we want to show that art is something beautiful and can be enjoyed by everyone,” Candra added.
Ultimately, the Ulur-Ulur ceremony stands as both a cultural heritage and a strategic asset for tourism development. By combining tradition, education, and community participation, Tulungagung aims to preserve its identity while attracting broader audiences.