SEAToday.com, Jakarta-There is one interesting phenomenon during Ramadan this year, the Takjil War. The Takjil War started to become popular when many non-muslims joined in buying takjil or snacks during Ramadan before breaking the fast or iftar.
Sounds familiar, right? I am sure all of you SEATizens have heard, seen, or even experienced it yourself. Ramadan is the holy month for Muslims and in Indonesia, we are blessed with so many traditions, one of them is takjil. The fun of hunting for snacks and food for breaking the fast is also tempting for non-muslims.
There are many reasons but one of them is there are many snacks, traditional ones that are only easy to find during Ramadan. Such as Kolak, Bubur Sumsum, Candil Biji Salak, Cendol, fritters, and many more.
One of the places to go to is Pasar Benhill, Central Jakarta. You can find all kinds of takjil here, that is why many people are willing to come even from far, to hunt their takjil. Usually, Pasar Benhill starts to get crowded from 3 p.m., so be prepared if you are going to buy takjil there. The waiting in line can go around 1 hour.
The phenomenon of the Takjil War can be seen here. But, it gave us a warm feeling, of how all differences in tastes and beliefs become one in the month of Ramadan. Everyone gathers and queues at hawker centers or takjil to buy food filled with a sense of tolerance and mutual respect.
The Takjil War made people happier because Ramadan belonged to all people and became a symbol of tolerance among Indonesians.
“It’s fun, in my opinion, just be tolerant and have fun. And also this is a once-in-a-year event,” said Melisa, one of the buyers in Pasar Benhill.
Noni, one of the sellers said,” In my opinion, it doesn’t matter as long as we respect each other. And it is also beneficial for us, to have more customers.”
And, tet's be honest, non-Muslims joining to buy takjil has always been present every year. But, social media nowadays made it more popular, appealing, and also fun! Enjoy Ramadan and one message for our fellow non-Muslims, please don’t buy all the snacks from the sellers, save some for the Muslims.
