Bali is a small island in Indonesia with a big heart and a rich spiritual heritage. As the home of over 90% of Indonesia’s Hindus, Bali is a place where the divine is celebrated in a multitude of ways. From elaborate temple ceremonies to daily offerings, Hinduism is deeply woven into the fabric of Balinese life.
One of the most unique and fascinating aspects of Hinduism in Bali is the abundance of holy days and celebrations. Each one has its own unique traditions and rituals, and all are an important part of the island’s cultural identity. Here is a quick introduction to some of the most important Hindu holy days in Bali:
NYEPI
Nyepi is the Balinese “Day of Silence” and is celebrated on the day following the dark moon of the Hindu lunar calendar’s month of Pisces. On Nyepi, all activity on the island comes to a complete stop, with no work, travel, or leisure allowed. The streets are empty and all lights are turned off as a way to honor the gods and seek their blessings. It’s an unusual but deeply meaningful celebration that truly sets Bali apart.
GALUNGAN
This is a major holy day in Bali, marking the victory of dharma (virtue) over adharma (vice). It is celebrated every 210 days and marks the time when the spirits of the ancestors are believed to visit the earth. During Galungan, elaborate offerings and decorations are made and special rituals are performed in honor of the ancestors. It’s a time for families to come together and pay respects to their ancestors, and the island is ablaze with colorful decorations and offerings.
KUNINGAN
Kuningan is celebrated 10 days after Galungan and marks the time when the ancestors return to the spirit world. It is a time of thanksgiving and offering appreciation for the blessings received during Galungan. This is a more subdued celebration compared to Galungan, but no less important in the spiritual life of the island.
SARASWATI
This holy day is celebrated in honor of the Hindu goddess of knowledge, music, and the arts. On Saraswati, offerings are made to the goddess and special rituals and ceremonies are held to seek her blessings. It’s a beautiful and uplifting celebration, with music and dance playing a central role.
PIODALAN
Piodalan is a local temple anniversary and is celebrated on the day the temple was founded. Each temple has its own unique anniversary, and the celebrations can last for several days, with offerings, rituals, and dances held in honor of the gods. It’s a wonderful opportunity to see the island’s beautiful temples and learn more about their histories and significance.
TUMPEK KANDANG
This holy day is dedicated to the animals and is celebrated every six months. On Tumpek Kandang, animals are given special offerings and blessings as a way to thank them for their role in human life. It’s a heartwarming celebration that shows the deep respect and appreciation that the Balinese have for all living beings.
PURNAMA
Purnama, or “full moon,” is a holy day that occurs every month on the day of the full moon. It is believed to be an auspicious time for making offerings and performing rituals, and many people will visit temples and make offerings on this day.
TILEM
Tilem, or “dark moon,” is a holy day that occurs every month on the day of the new moon. It is believed to be a time of transition and renewal, and many people will fast and perform purification rituals on this day.
SIVARATRI
Sivaratri is a major Hindu holy day that occurs once a year and is dedicated to the god Shiva. It is a time of fasting and meditation, and many people will visit temples and perform rituals to honor Shiva.
TUMPEK LANDEP
Tumpek Landep is a holy day that occurs every six months and is dedicated to the god of metal, Vishwakarma. It is a time to honor and give thanks for the tools and technology that make daily life possible, and many people will make offerings and perform rituals to honor Vishwakarma.
TUMPEK WAYANG
Tumpek Wayang is a holy day that occurs every six months and is dedicated to the god of the arts, Sanghyang Ismaya. It is a time to honor the arts and give thanks for the beauty they bring to life, and many people will make offerings and perform rituals to honor Sanghyang Ismaya.
PAGERWESI
Pagerwesi is a holy day that occurs once a year and is dedicated to the god of wisdom, Dewa Ruci. It is a time to seek wisdom and enlightenment, and many people will visit temples and make offerings to honor Dewa Ruci.
These are just a few of the many holy days celebrated by Hindus in Bali. Each one has its own unique traditions and rituals, and all are an important part of the rich cultural heritage of the island. If you’re planning a visit to Bali, be sure to check out the local calendar and see if you can catch one of these amazing celebrations in action. It’s a truly unforgettable experience!