Indonesia is the world’s second most linguistically diverse country, with over 700 languages being spoken across its islands alongside the official language, Bahasa Indonesia. These local languages are more than a means of daily communication, and are expressions of each ethnicity’s rich philosophy.
The Javanese word for “seven” is pitu, a symbol of pitulungan, meaning “help” or “favor”. For a solo putri Javanese bride from Surakarta, Central Java, the seven glimmering cunduk menthul hair sticks standing tall atop her head ornament represent the favor of the Almighty shining upon her marriage.
This spirituality is also reflected in the cunduk jungkat crown, a symbol of divine providence, and the centung hair pins that frame it, which embody one’s endeavour to align with their Creator.
Meanwhile, the tibo dodo bawang sebungkul garland of jasmine and rose that culminates in a cluster of Magnolia champaca buds as it reaches the bride’s waist reminds one to ponder upon the Almighty’s guidance in their hearts, and represents the sacred union of marriage.
