The Pesarean area of Gunung Kawi in Malang Regency, East Java, has recently come into the public spotlight following the circulation of a price list that triggered various wild speculations. Many parties have linked the list to the rates for the pesugihan (wealth-seeking) rituals that have long been a myth associated with the location.
However, Brawijaya University Anthropology Lecturer Padmo Adi provided a firm clarification. Based on his research, the price list is not a rate for occult practices or pesugihan, but rather a breakdown of official costs for pilgrims who wish to hold a selamatan (thanksgiving) ceremony or prayer of gratitude.
Padmo explained that local residents provide various selamatan packages to assist pilgrims. The options are highly diverse, ranging from the provision of tumpeng (cone-shaped rice) to wayang kulit (shadow puppet) performances, which are part of the ruwatan (purification) tradition. The costs listed are adjusted to the complexity of each pilgrim's needs.
Echoing this academic perspective, a local resident named Recha emphasized that the price list has long been part of the services for pilgrims wishing to hold thanksgiving events, not for mystical purposes. She added that activities there focus more on expressing gratitude, including events such as aqiqah.
While acknowledging the legends and myths surrounding Gunung Kawi, the sources agreed that the narrative regarding 'pesugihan rates' is a misconception. The local community actually only facilitates logistical needs for pilgrims coming from various regions to offer their prayers solemnly.
