The Outcry Over a Photo of a Man in Kebaya at Satu Suro, Paola Serena Finally Speaks Up!

Kapanlagi.com - A photo of a man in kebaya complete with a bun at the Kirab Malam 1 Suro Mangkunegaran event suddenly went viral on social media. This unusual appearance immediately sparked intense debate among netizens, especially regarding traditional dress codes.

Renowned beauty influencer, Paola Serena, was also drawn into this controversy after posting her moment with the man. She is now providing clarification regarding the incident that occurred.

This incident took place on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, during the 1 Sura Be 1960 Mangkunegaran tradition, which became the main focus of public attention. This was due to the appearance of a man wearing a kebaya complete with a bun.

The man's appearance was deemed inappropriate by many parties according to the dress code established by the event organizers. The Kirab Malam 1 Suro event itself is a sacred ritual marking the turn of the year in the Javanese calendar, where every detail, including clothing, holds deep philosophical and historical significance. Therefore, deviations from established norms often provoke strong reactions from a society that upholds tradition.

1. Paola Serena Uploads Photo with RMS

Beauty influencer and actress Paola Serena shared a moment with a man in a kebaya with the initials RMS. The photo was uploaded through her personal Instagram account on June 17, 2026. However, shortly after being uploaded, the photos were deleted by Paola Serena from her Instagram account.

2. Initial Defense of Paola Serena Draws Criticism

Although the photo has been deleted, its digital footprint is still widely spread across the internet. Paola Serena provided a defense in the comments section of her post. She stated that her friend, RMS, had received permission to wear the kebaya, but this statement actually triggered further criticism from the public.

3. Complete Clarification from Paola Serena

On June 18, 2026, Paola Serena finally uploaded a clarification video on her Instagram account to clarify the misunderstanding. She explained that it was not her who requested permission regarding the outfit worn by RMS. Paola refused to mention the person who was claimed to have given permission, stating that it was not her domain, and emphasized that she and RMS were invited separately to the event.

4. Firm Response from Pura Mangkunegaran

The Pura Mangkunegaran, through the Pengageng Kawedanan Panti Budaya Pura Mangkunegaran GRAj Ancillasura Marina Sudjiwo (Gusti Sura), issued an official statement on Thursday, June 18, 2026. Gusti Sura emphasized that the palace has never legalized the use of clothing that violates customary rules. The organizing committee of 1 Sura Be 1960 never granted special permission regarding attire, automatically refuting the claims made by Paola Serena.

5. Customary Clothing Rules of Pura Mangkunegaran

Pura Mangkunegaran has issued guidelines for ageman or official clothing for the 1 Sura customary ritual. These guidelines include a prohibition on the use of patterned fabric with slopes or parang designs. The prohibition on using slope or parang patterned fabrics, for example, is not without reason. These motifs are traditionally associated with the royal family or high nobility, so their use by the general public is considered a violation of ethics and customary hierarchy.

Similarly, velvet fabric, which often has certain connotations of luxury, may be deemed less appropriate for the simplicity and solemnity of the ritual. Additionally, velvet fabric is also not permitted, demonstrating a strong commitment to preserving tradition and dressing ethics.

(kpl/ums)