Bali goes eerily silent each March. Airport and all shut down, island dark and empty. Nyepi: a day of total stillness echoing throughout Bali.
Nyepi festivities span 3 days: before, during, and after. Balinese villages create demonic Ogoh-ogoh statues of bamboo, cloth, and styrofoam symbolizing evil spirits and gods. They're paraded around and burned in cemeteries or displayed for a month. Happens day before Nyepi.
Nyepi is a dramatic day of self-reflection starting at 6 am until the next morning. No working, no entertainment, and no traveling. Pecalang, the traditional security men, patrol the streets to ensure the prohibitions are being followed. Violators will be captured and penalized accordingly.
Ngembak Geni marks Balinese New Year's Day. Families and friends seek forgiveness and perform religious rituals. Restrictions lifted; fires and electricity allowed, cooking resumes.
Prepare well for Nyepi! Stock up on food for 2 days, cover windows or use lights sparingly to avoid penalties by Pecalang.
Nyepi brings a rare chance to pause and meditate amidst calming silence. As night falls, stars shine brighter, a rare sight in our busy world.
Wishing you a happy Nyepi Day of the Caka Year 1945