In the heart of Denpasar, Bali, lies the vibrant village of Sesetan, where once a year, hundreds gather not just to celebrate—but to push, pull, and, yes, kiss. Known as Omed-Omedan, or “the pulling ritual,” this unique tradition is held the day after Nyepi, Bali’s Day of Silence. More than a spectacle, it is a centuries-old cultural ritual that symbolizes social unity, spiritual cleansing, and youthful energy.
The Origins of Omed-Omedan
The history of Omed-Omedan dates back to the 17th century during the time of the Puri Oka royal family. As legend has it, a local king who was gravely ill miraculously recovered after witnessing a group of youths playfully pushing and pulling one another in the village courtyard. Believing this interaction to possess spiritual significance, he ordered the ritual to be performed annually.
Over time, the tradition became a symbol of purification and blessing, believed to dispel negative energies and bring fortune to the village. When the ritual was once halted, villagers reported an unusual incident—two wild boars fighting in the middle of the street—interpreted as a sign of disharmony from the spirit world. Since then, the ritual has never been interrupted again.
When and Where It Takes Place
The ritual is held every year on Ngembak Geni, the day after Nyepi, at Banjar Kaja in Sesetan Village. This day marks the return of human interaction after a full day of silence, and Omed-Omedan is seen as a spiritual and social “reset.”
How the Ritual Is Performed
The ceremony begins with communal prayers at the village temple, followed by a traditional Barong Bangkung performance, which reenacts the historic battle of the wild boars. After the opening rituals, two groups of unmarried youths—males and females aged 17 to 30—line up in opposing formations.
At the signal, they approach one another, pulling, hugging, and occasionally kissing, all while being drenched by buckets of holy water thrown by the committee and villagers. If participants become too engrossed or physically intertwined, the water serves to cool down the moment and restore order.
The pairing is spontaneous, and while not romantic by design, many couples who have met during the ritual have ended up in real-life relationships, adding another layer of charm and cultural myth to the event.
Deeper Meaning Behind the Ritual
Though modern spectators may view it as playful or even provocative, Omed-Omedan carries profound meaning. At its core, the ritual is about simakrama—a Balinese concept that emphasizes social bonding, reconciliation, and togetherness. It promotes the values of asah, asih, and asuh (guidance, love, and care), ensuring that the community remains spiritually aligned and socially united.
Modern-Day Festival and Cultural Heritage
Today, Omed-Omedan has grown into more than just a ritual—it has become a cultural festival. The event attracts both domestic and international tourists, and in recent years, it has been officially branded as the Omed-Omedan Cultural Heritage Festival. Traditional food stalls, Balinese dance performances, and art exhibitions accompany the main ritual, without diluting its sacred essence.
However, the number of participants is strictly controlled, and only unmarried villagers of Banjar Kaja are allowed to join. This measure is taken to preserve the spiritual sanctity and traditional values of the ceremony.
A Unique Expression of Balinese Identity
In a world where ancient rituals are often forgotten or commercialized, Omed-Omedan stands as a testament to Bali’s deep spiritual roots and vibrant communal life. It captures the essence of what it means to be Balinese—rooted in tradition, committed to harmony, and unafraid to embrace joy.
For those seeking to witness Bali beyond its beaches and temples, Omed-Omedan offers an unforgettable glimpse into the soul of the island: playful, spiritual, and enduring. (BT)
