EAST JAVA, INDONESIA, February 4, 2015 (Jakarta Post): Mount Bromo in East Java is inseparable from the Tengger people who live in Malang, Pasuruan, Probolinggo and Lumajang — and in over a dozen villages in the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park. The Tengger, who have lived in the area for centuries, are descended from Majapahit royalty. Many adhere to a distinct form of Hinduism, although there are also Muslim and Christians.
Most make their living as farmers. Unsurprisingly, their rituals are focused on nature. The Tengger lead modest lives, receiving outsiders warmly while preserving their group’s identity. This was evident when some Tengger recently welcomed members of the Blazer Indonesia Club automotive community to the vast sand plain around Mount Bromo.
The Tengger are happy to welcome guests formally, provided their intentions are good and that they agree to adhere to local customs. “They can [be welcomed] in a village or even in the sand, like now,” Karyadi said. Karyadi said the welcome ritual was meant to beseech the consent of the Supreme Power of the universe to the attainment of the visitors’ goals.
More of this interesting history at source.