Indonesia’s rich biodiversity include more than 1,700 species of birds, with more than 500 of them being endemic.
The haruei bird holds a revered place within the Dayak Ngaju, the largest indigenous ethnic group in the province of Central Kalimantan, and features prominently on the sumping bridal headband, alongside colorful beads believed to ward off evil.
It is fitting that the majestic feathers of the haruei bird adorn the bride on her auspicious day, as the sacred bird mates for life. As beautiful as the bride, the lively haruei also reminds the Dayak Ngaju of the passion their ancestors have for conserving nature.
To the Dayak Ngaju, the haruei bird symbolizes faithfulness, holiness, majesty, purity, and keeping a sharp eye for potential threats.
Colorful beads, too, protect the bride from evil, with each shade of color carrying its own meaning. Red serves as the wellspring of ones’ persistence in life; blue, the source of unceasing strength. Yellow symbolizes the sacred majesty and holiness of God; green, of nature; and white, of one’s pure faith and belief in the Almighty.
