There are so many unique cultures and traditions on this island. Here is a guide for you! 5 unique Balinese Culture you should know.
1. Perang Tipat Bantal
View this post on Instagram
Perang Tipat Bantal, which is also known as Aci Rah Penganggon, is held every fourth month (Sasih Kapat) in Balinese calendar. This tradition celebrates the agricultural life of residents at Kapal Village as a form of gratitude to God Almighty for all the life He has created and the abundance of crops in this village. Perang Tipat Bantal has been around since 1337.
2. Tradisi Omed-omedan
View this post on Instagram
People of Banjar Kaja, Sesetan see Omed-omedan tradition as a part of the form of masima krama or dharma shanti (establishing friendship) between fellow citizens. This tradition turns out to be a special attraction for tourists until now. The word “omed” has a meaning to attract. Therefore the tradition contains a ritual of alternating hugs and a tug-of-war between two groups of young people. Omed-omedan happens every year on the first day after Nyepi.
3. Perang Pandan
View this post on Instagram
Every fifth month (Sasih Kalima) in Tenganan Traditional calendar, people in Tenganan Village hold a unique ceremony called Perang Pandan. This ritual ceremony happens once a year for two consecutive days. During the ceremony, seloding gamelan instruments are played by only purified people. This instrument is a very sacred and it should not touch the ground.
4. Tradisi Mekotek
View this post on Instagram
People in Munggu Village celebrate the Mekotek ceremony every Kuningan Day. Mekotek comes from the word “tek-tek” which is the sound of the sticks being pitted. The sticks are made of Pulet wood that have been peeled off and measured about 2-3,5 meter. As a symbol of victory, Mekotek is an effort to fight the calamity that befell the villagers decades ago.
5. Mabuug-buugan
View this post on Instagram
Mabuug-buugan is a tradition that represent the symbol of human releasing dirt on their bodies. Mabuug which means mud, usually related to something bad so the mud needs to be released. Moreover, this tradition happens as the closing ceremony for Hari Raya Nyepi to also convey messages about protecting the environment around the mangrove forests of Kedonganan area.