Of all Bandung icons, Lapangan Gasibu, or the Gasibu Square, is probably the most symbolic. Located just accross the street from Gedung Sate (the West Java governor's office mansion) and the Provincial Council Offices complex, it is literally the center of everything's going on in Bandung. Political ralies and demonstrators go here to have their voices heard, entertainment events are staged here for the Bandungese to enjoy, mass prayers are held here at least twice a year during the Moslems' holidays of Idul Fitri and Idul Adha. Think of any activities you like (or don't like), and chances are you can find people doing them here: from the spiritual to the mundane, private to public, philantropic to commercial.
And every Sunday morning, this place and its surrounding areas are bursting with life. Bandungese of all walks of life go here to exercise or just stroll and shop. Yes, shop! Stalls and street traders of all kinds selling foods, clothes, home accessories, toys, and even pets are found here. One day in a week, this place turns into a marketplace where you can find everything and anything. Here are some snapshots.
Young enterpreneurial spirit at Gasibu: Two youngsters selling rabbit pets to an eager buyer.
A juggler offers a free entertainment to the Sunday walkers.
Colorful scarfs - one of the many wares sold at Gasibu.
As if symbolic of the real life, poverty and social problems are also represented here.
1 comment:
I've been reading your blog this morning, and enjoying it. Your words compliment your excellent photography!
It is good to get an insight into Indonesian (and Sundanese) life & culture from and insider's perspective. Unfortunately we don't get to hear these kind of stories in Australia often, which I think is to the detriment of our relationship. We're far too insular down here, and I think more Australians would benefit from seeing what day-to-day life is like for our neighbours...
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