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…
The Melasti Ceremony is a sacred Hindu ritual performed in Bali ahead of Nyepi Day, the Balinese Day of Silence. This purification ceremony holds deep spiritual meaning, aiming to cleanse the body, mind, and soul from negative energies and past wrongdoings. It also serves to purify the surrounding environment, preparing both individuals and nature for…
Ter-Teran is an ancient ritual observed by the people of Jasri Village in Karangasem, Bali. This unique tradition takes place as part of the Usaba Muu-Muu ceremony, held biennially in odd-numbered years. It coincides with Pengrupukan or Tawur Kesanga, the evening before Nyepi, Bali’s sacred Day of Silence. The purpose of this ritual is to…
Bali is home to many cultural heritages and unique traditions that have been preserved through generations. One of these is the Megoak-Goakan tradition, celebrated in Buleleng. Originating from Panji Village in Sukasada District, this traditional game was initially played by children and is inspired by the hunting behavior of a raven (goak) targeting its prey….
Bali is home to numerous unique traditions passed down through generations, one of which is Mabuug-buugan. This sacred tradition is practiced by the people of Desa Adat Kedonganan, Badung Regency, a day after the Nyepi celebration, precisely on Ngembak Geni. Mabuug-buugan is the only mud bathing tradition in Bali and has been recognized as a…
As Bali prepares for Nyepi, the Day of Silence, the island comes alive with unique purification ceremonies. One of the most captivating is Meamuk-amukan, a centuries-old fire ritual practiced in Padang Bulia Village, Sukasada District. This mystical tradition involves villagers engaging in a symbolic battle using burning bundles of dried coconut leaves. The ritual begins…
Amidst Denpasar’s Bali bustling urban landscape lies an ancient ritual that defies modernity – the sacred Maburu ceremony of Panjer Village. This captivating pre-Nyepi tradition offers a fascinating glimpse into Bali’s spiritual resilience, where age-old customs thrive just minutes away from the island’s capital. Three days before Nyepi, Panjer’s unique observance begins with symbolic preparations….
In the tranquil village of Kayuputih, located in Banjar District, Buleleng Regency, Bali, a time-honored tradition called Nyakan Diwang continues to thrive. This unique cultural practice takes place the day after Nyepi, known as Ngembak Geni, when villagers gather outside their homes to cook together over open flames. Beyond its role as a post-Nyepi ritual,…
Omed-Omedan, often called the “Pulling Ritual,” is a lively and unique tradition performed annually by the youth of Banjar Kaja in Sesetan, Denpasar, Bali. This ritual takes place a day after Nyepi, during Ngembak Geni, which signifies the beginning of the Balinese Saka New Year. Rooted in local customs, the event aims to strengthen social…
Pengerupukan is a unique and sacred tradition that remains an essential part of Balinese culture. This ritual takes place on the eve of Nyepi, the Balinese Day of Silence, and is believed to drive away negative energies and purify the environment. It symbolizes the expulsion of Bhuta Kala, or demonic forces, that are said to…
