Nyepi
March 11, Monday
History and Significance of the Festival
Nyepi is rooted in ancient Balinese culture and Hindu religious tradition, which holds that the day is dedicated to purification, rebirth, and harmony with nature. The main purpose of Nyepi is spiritual and physical purification through peace, meditation, and withdrawal from the bustle of the world.
Nyepi Traditions and Customs
The Nyepi celebration consists of several stages and traditional rituals:
Ogog-ogog - the day before Nyepi. On the evening before Nyepi, parades take place in the streets with giant dolls called ogog-ogog, representing evil spirits. These dolls are handmade, often in the form of mythical creatures, demons or monsters. The parade symbolizes the cleansing of evil and the expulsion of evil spirits from the island. At the end of the parade, the ogog-ogog is often burned to destroy all evil.
The Day of Silence and Peace (Nyepi). For 24 hours, there is complete silence, known as Chaturbrata - observing the four prohibitions:
Amati genny - a ban on fire or lighting, including electric light.
Amati karya - a ban on work or physical labor.
Amati lelungan - a ban on traveling, moving, and even leaving the house.
Amati lelangwan - a ban on entertainment and fun.
All residents of Bali, regardless of religion, are required to observe these rules. On this day, the streets are empty, and all public places, including airports and shops, are closed. The entire island is immersed in complete silence and peace.
Meditation and fasting. Many Balinese spend the day in meditation and fasting, which symbolizes spiritual cleansing and preparation for a new beginning.
Ngabur Ngabur - the day after Nyepi. After the end of Nyepi, Balinese begin to celebrate the New Year by visiting friends and relatives, asking for forgiveness, and starting the year with good intentions. This day is also dedicated to re-establishing social ties and celebrating.