Balinese People Celebrate Galungan
“ Colourful celebrations throughout the Island of God ”
Balinese people celebrate the day of Galungan, which commemorates the victory of Dharma over Adharma, or good against evil, this November 1-3. This celebration comes twice a year in our Gregorian Calendar as Balinese use a 210 days Calendar.
This is a unique welcome to Bali if you happen to be on the island around this time, and usually lasts until Kuningan, another associated observance that comes 10 days after on November 11. It marks the time when the ancestral spirits visit the Earth. The last day of the celebration is Kuningan, when they return.
WHAT HAPPENS?
Traditionally, Galungan day sees the slaughtering of pigs for communal feasts, as well as baking traditional rice cakes and set up iconic “penjor” bamboo poles in streets. These intricately decorated poles, naturally curved at the top are made with palm tree leaves.
Balinese also attempt to temples during these days with family and friends and bring with them offerings like fruits.The following Thursday, is a day to visit family, friends and relatives to enjoy time all together.
Kuningan marks the end of this 10 days celebration. Ceremony refers to offering special yellow turmeric rice. Yellow is also the colour of the god Vishnu, the protector of the Hindu trinity. The occasion also features several performances of dance and rituals.