The Gerumbungan Cow Tradition Held in Kaliasem Village

Kaliasem Village is a village located in Buleleng district, Bali. Kaliasem Village exudes natural beauty and distinctive local wisdom. Located in the northwest of Bali, this village offers enchanting natural charm and rich culture. Gerumbungan Cow is one of the traditions that has been held in Kaliasem Village.

Jul 30, 2026 - 05:37
Jul 30, 2026 - 10:18
The Gerumbungan Cow Tradition Held in Kaliasem Village
Kaliasem Village (Photo Source: Author's Collection)

The Gerumbungan Cow tradition in Kaliasem Village is an inseparable part of community life and agricultural sustainability in the region. Gerumbungan cattle, with their unique physical characteristics, play an important role in cultivation activities in Kaliasem Village. This tradition does not only apply to Kaliasem Village itself, but also to all villages in Buleleng district.
 
Kaliasem Village is known as one of the leading villages that actively participates in the Gerumbungan Cow Tradition. At each implementation of the Gerumbungan Cow activity, the village community who owns the Gerumbungan cow always participates in this tradition. This reflects the togetherness and solidarity between residents in maintaining and passing on this valuable cultural tradition. Kaliasem Village has a large field and is suitable as a place to hold the Gerumbungan Cow Tradition. Apart from that, the cows in this village are also good. Therefore, these two things are the reason that the Gerumbungan Cow Tradition is focused or held in the Kaliasem Village field.

The word "gerumbungan" actually means a large bell, and in the context of the Gerumbungan Cow competition in Kaliasem Village, the bell is hung from the cows' necks. However, in this competition, only bulls can participate, and selection is carried out carefully by the livestock group. The cattle selected are those with stocky bodies, and this selection involves various specific criteria.
 
In the preparation stage for the Gerumbungan Cow competition, the livestock group selects young bulls that meet the established standards. The preparation involves training so that the cow can perform with uniform steps, the cow's tail is curled, and the cow's head is looking up. This is done to create a beautiful and harmonious appearance during the Sapi Gerumbungan performance. In this context, competitions are not just about presenting cows as participants, but are also a performing art that involves expertise in selecting, training and preparing cows so that they can appear with a beautiful and distinctive aesthetic. In this way, Sapi Gerumbungan becomes more than just a competition, but also a cultural performance that displays the beauty of selected bulls.

In the Gerumbungan Cow competition, the assessment includes several important aspects which are the focus of the jury team. One of them is the type of cattle participating, where selecting bulls with certain criteria is a crucial part of the selection process. The accessories used are also an aspect of the assessment, reflecting the authenticity and aesthetics of this tradition.
However, the key point in the assessment is the harmony of the cow's gait. This is where the skills of a jockey become very necessary, because he must not only be able to control the cow skillfully, but also be able to display unique attractions. This capability adds value to the overall performance, creating an engaging and memorable experience for the audience.
 
The Gerumbungan Cow tradition places special emphasis on several physical aspects of the cow, including the body, tail, and body position when standing. The clothing or costumes worn by the cows are also a judging point, creating a traditional feel and cultural aesthetic. In addition, the cow's movements and steps, along with body posture and tail position, become specific in the assessment, indicating the extent to which the overall appearance reflects the beauty and authenticity of the Gerumbungan Cow Tradition. Thus, this assessment creates an appreciation for the harmony and skill demonstrated in every aspect of the performance.
 
The Sapi Gerumbungan tradition was previously held according to a certain agenda, especially in the context of district activities. In general, this activity is scheduled once a year, unless there are tourist visits, then its implementation is adjusted to the situation. Unfortunately, this tradition has rarely been implemented in recent years. Estimates say that in the last 5-10 years, this tradition has rarely been held. However, the Gerumbungan Cow Tradition can still be carried out if there are certain special activities. However, it should be noted that there is no definite schedule for when the Gerumbungan Cow Tradition will be carried out.