Kelanawisata.id, Yogyakarta - Grebeg Mulud in the Year of the Dal was held on Friday (September 5). There was a difference in this year’s Garebeg Mulud. The Yogyakarta Palace revived the presence of four Bregada soldiers who had not previously been featured during the Garebeg. The four soldiers were Bregada Langenkusumo, Bregada Sumoatmojo, Bregada Suronata, and Bregada Jager.

Bregada Langenkusumo drew public attention during the Grebeg. These soldiers have existed since the time of Sri Sultan Hamengkubuwono I and Sri Sultan Hamengkubuwono II. According to kratonjogja.id, Bregada Langenkusumo has existed since 1767. This brigade carries swords, arrows, and spears during the Garebeg ceremony. The entire brigade consists of female soldiers (estri).

The Sumoatmojo Brigade serves as the royal guard for Ngarso Dalem. These soldiers reappear during the Garebeg Mulud procession. In addition to the Sumoatmojo Brigade, there is also the Jager Brigade, which serves as the Puraraksaka or palace guards. Furthermore, there is the Suronata Brigade, symbolizing loyalty and integrity to the Sultan.

The presence of these soldiers is revived to preserve cultural values, uphold philosophical principles, and pass down the military traditions of the Yogyakarta Palace. Today, the Garebeg ceremony has become increasingly complex and unique. This is because the number of Bregada featured has increased from 10 to 14. Additionally, the Langennastra soldiers and the presence of the gamelan ensemble further enliven the ceremony.

In addition to the return of several soldier units, this year features unique elements that occur only once every 8 years. The Garebeg in the Dal year is held only once every 8 years. A unique moment is the appearance of the Gunungan Brama. This Gunungan is presented specifically during the Sekaten celebration in the Dal year.
The Gunungan Brama differs from the Gunungan Lanang, Gunungan Estri, Gunungan Dharat, Gunungan Gephak, and Gunungan Pawuhan. The Gunungan Brama is specifically intended for the Sri Sultan, the Royal Family, and the Royal Household. The distribution of the gunungan takes place at Cepuri Kedhaton. For the other gunungan, distribution occurs at the courtyard of the Gedhe Kauman Mosque, the Pakualaman Temple, and the Kepatihan Hall.