Sutiah is a real woman mountain. She lives in a small village high on the edge of the Tengger massif, a spectacular area including Mount Bromo and five other volcanoes. Sutiah is no stranger to earthquakes and volcanic eruptions, have experienced a lot in his 70 years living in the area. His life is a simple but happy, she told me as I spoke with her in front of her small, weather-beaten, but comfortable house.
"The soil is very productive in this area and I am able to grow a lot of vegetables such as potatoes, corn, cabbage, onions and soy beans," she explained.
the Tengger people are real survivors and Sutiah is no exception. They managed to keep their Hindu beliefs, despite the dominant influence of Islam in the region, and still organizing ceremonies . traditional old each year, as Karo Sutiah festival explained: "Meanwhile, we sacrifice to appease the spirits of volcanoes We believe a lot in this area, because it can make the difference between life and death.. "
Sutiah has two children who live nearby and it is clear to see that they are a very united family with strong ties to the land and their ancient heritage.
The Tengger are a very warm and welcoming people and remind me a little hobbits in Lord of the Rings very comfortable in their simple houses, a strong sense of community and, despite environmental challenges and ever-present threats of volcanic eruptions, continue to survive for thousands more years, I'm sure.