Funeral reception in Tana Toraja

Buffalos and pigs donated by guests are brought to the reception site, registered and will be slaughtered later on to feed the numerous guests.

Dancers in traditional attire lead guests to the reception hall.

The funeral party representing a family, part of a family or a village, is led by a couple in traditional dress. The mourners wear black.

Guests find their way to the main reception hall,...

... where they will be presented with betel, cigarettes, tea, coffee, and food by the family of the deceased.

Once these guests will have paid their respects, they will be led out of the main reception hall to make space for the next group of guests. This coming and going can take up to two days for a big funeral.

The deceased in his/per person is placed in a higher hall across the main reception hall and watches the ceremony.

As said before, no sudden death in Tana Toraja.

Tana Toraja, South Sulawesi, May 2009.