Ceremonies

Our second day in Bali was special as there was a very special ceremony not too far away from our hotel. The streets had been blocked off for quite some way away and only foot traffic allowed. All the streets were decorated and a large stage area set up for the event itself. In the evening people lined up for such a long way to give their offerings and prayers and we watched with great interest. Groups of people were very happy to have their picture taken and chat which gave the day a lovely atmosphere. When the ceremony started a dancer began to dress for the occasion. Dressing took sometime as every piece seem to require a special procedure of dressing.

Looking around it was obvious that the ladies wore a white shirt with a sarong dressed up with a variety of intersting belts. In their hair was many different kinds of flower or gold accessories. The men all wore white shirts as well and had a white headdress called an ‘udeng’ or ‘destar’, which is symbolic of the Balinese ‘Ulu Candra’. Everyone around was very interested in the proceedings and it seemed that it was indeed, a very special occasion. A lovely introduction to our holiday and the culture of Bali.

 Bali 2010