Happy new year, it’s 1936!
That is, according to the Balinese calendar at least.
On 31 March, Bali rung in its Lunar New Year with the annual festivities that surround the unique Hindu holiday of Nyepi. A time to make and keep balance with nature, Nyepi reflects the harmonious relationship that exists between good and evil.
On the day equivalent to new year’s eve, banjars (village communities) all across the island parade around their other-worldly Ogoh-Ogoh, enormous bamboo structures meant to emulate the evil spirits that we must rid ourselves of at the end of each year.
Following the loud Ogoh-Ogoh processions filled with drums, torches and dancing amidst the night is a day of silence for all of Bali. No work, no noise, no leaving the home. Even the international airport is closed this day. All you hear is silence (and maybe a few dog barks) for the purpose of self-introspection, reflection and new beginnings. A clean slate to begin the new year!
Take a peek at some of this year’s Nyepi celebrations as seen through the eyes of Tagalalang, a small village just north of Ubud.
