JAKARTA – Across Indonesia, the arrival of Eid al-Fitr is marked not only by prayers and family gatherings but also by the presence of a distinctive traditional dish: Ketupat. Wrapped in intricately woven coconut leaves and filled with compressed rice, ketupat is far more than a festive food. It carries deep cultural symbolism that has been passed down through generations.

In the days leading up to Eid, many families gather in their kitchens to prepare the woven casings made from young coconut leaves. The weaving process itself is considered an art, requiring patience and skill. Once filled with rice and boiled for hours, the ketupat transforms into a compact rice cake ready to be sliced and served alongside various dishes.

The tradition of ketupat is believed to be closely linked to the teachings of the Javanese Islamic scholar Sunan Kalijaga, one of the revered Wali Songo who helped spread Islam in Java. Over time, ketupat became a culinary symbol of forgiveness and renewal during Eid.

The woven exterior represents the complexity of human mistakes, while the white rice inside symbolizes purity and sincerity after a month of fasting during Ramadan. For many Indonesians, serving ketupat on Eid day is a meaningful reminder of spiritual reflection.

Ketupat is commonly paired with dishes such as opor ayam, rendang, or vegetable curry known as sayur labu. Together, these dishes create the rich flavors that define the Indonesian Eid table.

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For families in rural areas, preparing ketupat is also a moment of togetherness. Older family members often teach younger generations how to weave the leaves, ensuring that the tradition continues.

Ahmad Fauzi, a 55-year-old resident of Lamongan in East Java, said the process has always been a cherished family activity.

“Every year before Eid, my children and grandchildren gather in the kitchen to make ketupat together,” he said. “It is not only about cooking, but also about remembering our traditions," he explains.

On Eid morning, ketupat becomes the centerpiece of the family meal after returning from prayer. Plates filled with sliced rice cakes and fragrant dishes quickly disappear as relatives share laughter and stories.

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Even in modern cities, where many people buy ready-made ketupat from markets, the dish continues to hold strong emotional value.

For Indonesians, ketupat is not simply food. It represents humility, forgiveness, and the joy of celebrating a new beginning together.