Tidak Hanya Indonesia, 9 Negara Ini Juga Memiliki Tradisi Mudik

Mudik - the tradition of returning to one’s hometown - is commonly practiced by the Indonesian people before religious holidays such as Eid al-Fitr and Christmas. This tradition is not unique to Indonesia, as several other countries also have similar customs.

Mudik Traditions in Various Countries:

• Malaysia (Balik Kampung):

In Malaysia, the tradition of mudik is known as “Balik Kampung.” It is commonly observed a week before Eid al-Fitr, known as Hari Raya Puasa. During this time, Malaysians leave major cities to head to their hometowns, where they gather with family, enjoy traditional dishes, and strengthen familial bonds.

• Turkey (Şeker Bayramı):

As a predominantly Muslim country, Turkey celebrates Eid al-Fitr, known as Şeker Bayramı or the “Sugar Festival,” with great joy. The mudik tradition in Turkey focuses on family gatherings, visiting the graves of ancestors, and massive pilgrimages marked by increased flower sales in major cities’ markets.

• China (Chunyun):

The largest exodus in China happens during the Chinese New Year, known as Chunyun. This annual migration sees millions of people traveling back to their hometowns to reunite with family. Public transportation, including trains and planes, experiences a significant surge in passengers during this period.

• South Korea (Chuseok or Hangawi):

In South Korea, the mudik tradition takes place during Chuseok or Hangawi, a harvest festival that falls on the 8th month of the lunar calendar. Koreans travel back to their hometowns to pay respect to their ancestors, visit family graves, and enjoy traditional dishes like songpyeon (rice cakes).

• United States (Thanksgiving):

Apart from Christmas, the largest mudik tradition in the United States occurs during Thanksgiving. At the end of November, Americans travel long distances to reunite with family and savor traditional dishes such as roast turkey. This phenomenon leads to increased road and air traffic, making it one of the busiest travel periods in the country.

• India (Idulfitri and Diwali):

In India, the mudik tradition is observed before Eid al-Fitr and the festival of Diwali or Deepavali. Muslim communities travel in large numbers to their hometowns for Eid celebrations, while the peak migration period occurs during Diwali. People of various faiths undertake long journeys to gather with family and enjoy the vibrant Festival of Lights.

• Bangladesh (Grame Fera):

Known as “return to the village,” Grame Fera is the mudik tradition in Bangladesh before Eid al-Fitr. Millions of people leave major cities like Dhaka to reunite with family in their hometowns. This exodus results in a significant increase in the use of public transport, especially trains, buses, and ferries, leading to long ticket queues and traffic congestion.

• Saudi Arabia (‘Awda ila ad-Diyar):

Despite being less widespread than in other countries, many residents working in major cities like Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam still travel to their hometowns in Saudi Arabia before Eid al-Fitr. The tradition, known as ‘Awda ila ad-Diyar, sees families predominantly gathering in their respective homes, focusing on fostering relationships and sharing alms with the less fortunate during Eid celebrations.

• Egypt:

In Egypt, the tradition of mudik before Eid al-Fitr, though on a smaller scale compared to Indonesia, is still significant. Locals consider Eid al-Fitr as a “minor holiday” in comparison to Eid al-Adha. However, many individuals still journey to their hometowns to celebrate with family, attend Eid prayers, and savor special treats like kahk, traditional Egyptian Eid cookies.

Source: Compiled from information by detikcom and official sources.