VOICED : Indonesian island sees future in age old horseback battle

The video explores the Pasola ritual on the Indonesian island of Sumba, highlighting its cultural and historical significance. Originally a form of human sacrifice, Pasola has evolved over time, with modern adaptations for safety. The ritual now attracts tourists, offering economic benefits to one of Indonesia's poorest regions.

What is the primary purpose of the Pasola ritual on the island of Sumba?

• To celebrate the harvest season

• To honor the ancestors and ensure a good rice harvest

• To train warriors for battle

• To entertain tourists

What change did the central government implement regarding the Pasola ritual?

• They required spears to be blunted and banned metal tips

• They allowed only women to participate

• They banned the ritual entirely

• They moved the event to a different island

What is the current practice to ensure a good harvest during the Pasola?

• Praying to the gods

• Planting rice during the ritual

• Animal sacrifices

• Human sacrifices

How is the Pasola ritual expected to impact the local economy of Sumba?

• By increasing agricultural productivity

• By attracting more tourists to the island

• By reducing poverty through government aid

• By creating new job opportunities in agriculture

Despite its growing fame, who primarily participates in the Pasola ritual?

• Government officials

• Foreign investors

• Local people

• International tourists