cirebon cullinary 
Getting to know the Curak Tradition
In Keraton Village, Suranenggala District, Cirebon Regency, there is a unique
tradition known as Curak. Curak is the custom of the community to throw
money as an expression of gratitude for the grace and sustenance given by God
Almighty.
This tradition has been around for a long time and has become part of the
identity of the Keraton Village community. For the locals, Curak is not just a ceremonial
activity, but also a symbol of unity, kindness, and sharing sustenance with others.
People perform Curak as a form of gratitude. When a person experiences good fortune or abundant sustenance, such as after a successful harvest, birthday, have a new vehicle, or other achievements, they will organize a Curak. During the Curak event, the individual will distribute money to those around them, including children, neighbors, and the wider community. This tradition reflects the spirit of togetherness and deep concern among neighbors. People who carry out Curak not only share material neighbors but also spread hope that the sustenance received will bring blessings to the entire community. Children generally look forward to the Curak event, as it offers them an opportunity to receive small gifts while learning about the values of kindness and sharing.
In addition, Curak also serves as a moment to strengthen social relations, as those who come to witness and participate in the event are usually not only from the same neighborhood but also include passersby who happen to join in the Curak. The atmosphere created fills the space with laughter, jokes, and friendship, making Curak more than just a ritual; it becomes a small community celebration full of meaning. In every month of Curak, there is a moral meaning that the sustenance we receive is not only for ourselves, but also to reach out and please those around us.
This act of throwing money is more than just ‘sharing sustenance’; it carries a
deep philosophy:
- Spreading happiness to others
- Draw closer to God through charity
- We invite others to join us in expressing gratitude for the gifts we have received.
There are no special requirements for Curak. Curak is usually held in an open space. Such as a house yard, a village road, or any large enough area. The person conducting the Curak will throw money into the air. While residents especially children will scramble to pick it up with great excitement. The atmosphere created is filled with happiness. The cheerful laughter of children trying to grab the money is a typical sight. In addition, Curak is also often accompanied by the recitation of bismillah prayers or verbal expressions of gratitude, adding a spiritual dimension to this tradition. In the midst of the times, Curak is one of the cultural heritages that needs to be preserved. This tradition teaches the importance of gratitude, sharing, and caring for others. Although simple, Curak re ects the noble values in the lives
of Keraton villagers.
The village government, traditional leaders, and the community must join hands to maintain the continuity of this Curak tradition. One way is to document Curak activities, organize special events to introduce it to the younger generation, and incorporate Curak as an element of local culture.
Curak is not just about sharing sustenance; it is also about fostering gratitude, spreading happiness, and strengthening relationships between neighbors. May the Curak Tradition in Keraton Village, Suranenggala, continue and become a source of inspiration for all of us to always appreciate what we have and share with others.
Author: Siti Farihah Ramadhani
