VICE documentary explores 'blood sacrifice' festival in Indonesia

A new documentary is attempting to shed light on an ancient Indonesian festival where human and animal blood is shed to ensure a fruitful harvest.

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'Blood Sacrifice in Indonesia' has been filmed by VICE media and documents the annual ceremony of Pasola, which involves men on horseback throwing spears at one another. The riders are made up of two teams of men from different clans who attempt to draw blood.

The festival is held on the Indonesian island of Sumba and it is believed that the spilt blood fertilizes the earth, ensuring a good harvest. Pasola is held in Kodi, Lamboya, Wanokaka and Gaura and takes place in the months of February and March.

To watch the full documentary visit www.vice.com