Bijalungu Hiu Paana Ritual

Bijalungu Hiu Paana is a unique maritime ritual practiced by the coastal Marapu communities of West Sumba. It involves the traditional and sustainable hunting of sharks, which are offered as sacrifices to appease the ocean spirits and ensure safe passage for fishermen. This ancient ritual is highly sacred and typically takes place in early February. It provides a rare insight into Sumba’s connection with the sea, contrasting the island’s more famous inland traditions.