Memunjung, a feast for the dead

Abstract

Memunjung is a form of respect and solidarity with the deceased.
It realizes by the family visiting their late relative in cemetery,
then spend their time having meals together with the dead. The
tradition has been practicing since the Hindu-Buddhist period. It
is well developed both in Java and Bali. The community practices
this activity on certain days, such as Galungan, Kuningan and
Pagerwesi day while in Java, they carry out Memunjung during
holidays such as Idul Fitri. Balinese Hindu offers Tampelan punjung
and Banten punjung to the spirit of ancestors, families or relatives at
home or cemetery. In certain days, the visitor brings the deceased’s
favorite food to the cemetery then they enjoy the meal together
with the dead. Recently, the custom to visit the grave is rarely done
by Balinese, especially to those who live in regional areas that do
not have strict rules about burial. Some argue that the increasing
Balinese’s standard of living as well as technological advancements,
contribute to change people mindset about the funeral in the
present. Hence, there are only a few areas that are still practicing
burial for the dead.