11/11/2021
Yesterday marked one of the most important ceremonies on the Balinese calendar, Galungan, the culmination of celebrations held in honour of the creator and ancestral spirits.
According to Balinese Hinduism, the creator of the universe is Ida Sang Hyang Widi. During these celebrations, it is believed that spirits of the ancestors return to the earth, thus marking the start of a number of Balinese festivals.
The Balinese traditionally return home during Galungan to pray at the family temple. Essentially it celebrates the triumph of good over evil and is the start of ten days of celebrations that end with the festival of Kuningan.
It's a beautiful time to be in Bali and all the more poignant for those who have suffered through the border closures and lockdowns.
