Bali Festivals

By Eddie Tobey

Bali has myriad festivals, rituals, and events. Balinese culture has great meaning behind all its festivals. Some festivals in Bali are dedicated to certain gods, including those who symbolize knowledge, virtue, or birth.

Harvest festivals, fasting and retreat festivals, blood sacrifices, and temple festivals are all part and parcel of Bali festivals. Festivals that signify the anniversary of a temple's founding called Odalan are quite famous. Nyepi festival marks the beginning of a new lunar year and on this day, everyone in Bali, including tourists, must remain silent. It is believed that any evil spirits would pass away thinking that the place is uninhabited due to the complete stillness.

The most important Bali festival is Galungan, which symbolizes the victory of virtue over evil. Balinese call it the victory of Dharma over Adharma. It is considered essential that the Balinese visit all their family temples on this day. A local holiday is declared on this day and every family is supposed to plant a bamboo pole decorated meticulously with coconut leaves and flowers.

Pagarwesi, another famous festival in Bali, is devoted to the lord of the universe, Sanghyang Pramesti Guru. The name literally means iron fence and Balinese people pray to this god for strong mental defense.

Festivals in Bali are eventful and colorful and the list includes Kuningan, when ceremonies are held for Balinese ancestors. This festival brings the New Year holiday period to a close.

There are festivals and ceremonies in Bali that are dedicated to the goddess of knowledge, Saraswati. Lots of ceremonies are also held to honor Holy Scriptures, science, literature, and arts.

Tumpek landep, a festival of weapons and tools made of metal for proper use and function is celebrated in every Balinese family compound. The rice harvest festival is one among the several popular festivals in Balinese culture. Tribute is paid to the rice god Dewi Sri, by placing small straw rice-god dolls in fields and villages. You can always check out the online resources and the significant number of books available to get to know about Balinese culture and festivals.

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