Mepantigan: Balinese MUD Martial Arts

Mepantigan, which means “to throw,” is a form of Balinese wrestling that combines self-defence techniques, traditional dancing and fun in the mud. The act is soundtracked by gamelan (a Balinese percussion ensemble) while participants grapple in knee-deep mud with the aim to tripping or throwing their opponent down into the rice field.

Founded by Putu Witsen Widjaya, a martial arts champion, Yayasan Mepantigan hosts hands-on courses in the basics of the practice as a novel stress reliever and fitness builder. Visitor donations from each half-day session help to fund the education of young students from the surrounding area of Batubulan which serve as the the foundation’s instructors.

• Location: East Bali
• Time: 8 hours
• Provided: Mepantigan tuition, refreshments, traditional lunch
• Bring: Old, comfortable clothes, the kids

THE EXPERIENCE

Step over a bamboo bridge into Yayasan Mepantigan’s open-air training grounds, encircled by palm forests. You’ll be greeted with a homemade lemongrass-and-pandan-leaf soda and a deafening kelaras welcome dance, performed by a troupe of masked men.

Your hosts and other young people involved in Mepantigan’s programme—will help you into a saput poleng (traditional sarong) in readiness for training.