Buzz
A day before the festival, the atmosphere is lively, but the next day is absolute silence!
For the people of Bali, Indonesia, the New Year celebration usually takes place in March or April every year, and the main festival day Nyepi is often referred to as the 'silent day.' This year, Nyepi festival falls on Monday, March 31, 2014.
Days before the main festival, Balinese people gather on the beach for the Melasti rituals, throwing a duck into the sea and using a knife to cleanse their bodies and souls.
A day before Nyepi, Balinese people organize vibrant parades believed to attract wandering spirits to the city.
At sunset, Balinese people assemble, forming processions called Ngrupuk. The most notable in the festival are the Ogoh Ogoh, giant colorful demon effigies, paraded through villages. Following these demon processions are music bands, fireworks, and bamboo cannons, creating a lively and vibrant scene.
As the night descends and nears midnight, they will gather all these Ogoh Ogoh and set them ablaze. In this way, the Balinese believe they can keep away evil spirits.
After burning the demons, all Balinese people hide indoors, as evil spirits are said to roam around at midnight unable to find them. If you have the chance to be in Bali during this festival, it's advisable to return to your hotel before midnight because afterward, there won't be any taxis lingering on the streets to take you back.
Following Nyepi night is the 'silent day,' and Balinese people strictly adhere to silent rules. Pecalang, traditional-dressed security guards, patrol the streets to inspect and prohibit any traffic or pedestrian activities. Even Denpasar airport will be closed on this day, a phenomenon you won't witness anywhere else in the world.
In Balinese homes, lights are dimmed to the minimum, people limit their activities, and refrain from using lighters, lamps, or TVs. In some places, even the internet is not used for fear of... spirits lurking!
In hotels, these rules are more lenient, but it's best to stroll in the hotel courtyard instead of going out. Some people even refrain from eating or talking on this day.
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Source: Travel Handbook Mytour – Courtesy of Xzone
MytourMarch 14, 2014
