SEKATEN SOLO DI SIMPANG TRADISI DAN KOMODIFIKASI: KAJIAN KRITIS ATAS PERGESERAN SAKRALITAS MENUJU KOMERSIALISASI BUDAYA DI KOTA SOLO

Abstract

Sekaten is a noble cultural heritage that forms a crucial part of Indonesia’s national identity construction, particularly in its cultural and spiritual dimensions. The philosophical meaning of Sekaten reflects the transcendent relationship between humans and the Creator within a local cultural framework. However, in recent decades, the sacred values of Sekaten have undergone significant shifts due to the penetration of modernization and commercialization. This research aims to examine the dynamics of value and meaning changes in the Sekaten celebration in Solo City as a reflection of its transformation from a sacred tradition towards cultural commodification. Using a qualitative approach and literature review method, this study analyzes Sekaten’s cultural practices, including changes in its ceremonies and the actors involved. Findings indicate that Sekaten is no longer merely a religious and cultural ritual but has shifted into an economic tourism and entertainment event heavily influenced by market interests. This condition reveals a tension between efforts to preserve traditional values and contemporary economic demands. This study is expected to enrich the discourse on national identity and strategies for preserving local culture amidst the currents of cultural capitalism.