Contrary to other cultures that celebrate New Year with vivacious and loud festivities, Balinese people celebrate it with the Day of Silence.
Silence Day, or known as Nyepi is the most magical and unique culture in Bali. It can be found nowhere else in the world other than on this enchanting little island.
The Purpose of Nyepi
“Nyepi” in Bahasa Bali which means silent, is the day to commemorate every Isakawarsa or New Year in Saka Calendar. According to the Hindu belief, Nyepi is a day reserve for a self-reflection through complete stillness in the physical and spiritual worlds.
Observed from 6 AM until 6 AM the next morning, the day requisite complete silence without any noise, traffic, fire, internet and lights. The whole island shuts down for a full 24 hours, and the streets are off limits to everyone. Even the airport closes for a full day, with planes being reroute above so not to disturb the silence below.
The Sequence of Ritual
The first ritual dedicated to the God (Sang Hyang Widhi Wasa) in Pura near the sea called Melasti (Melis or Mekiis). This Ritual is perform 3–4 days beforehand. The ritual meant to purify Arca, Pratima, and Pralingga (sacred objects) belonging to several temples, also to acquire sacred water from the sea.
There’s second ritual the one day before Nyepi, called “Pengrupukan“. It begins around the sunset in the house compounds with the noisy banging of pots or bamboo tubes. It also along with burning of dried coconut leaf torches to drive out the demons.
The ritual will be followed by a procession of Ogoh-ogoh, which are distinct Balinese giant paper puppets. Furthermore, the Ogoh-ogoh that symbol the evil spirit will all be torched in a joyous conflagration. As in Bali Safari Park, we also perform the procession of Ogoh-ogoh on March, 2 2022 to appreciate the local culture.
The moment Nyepi Day start, it mandates a day of complete silence based on four percepted of Catur Brata Penyepian. Amati Geni means no fire and light allowed, Amati Karya means no working, Amati Lelungan means no traveling and Amati Lelanguan means no entertainment.
On the day after Nyepi, known as Ngembak Geni (Relighting the Fire), social activity picks up again quickly. As families and friends gather to ask forgiveness from one another, and to perform certain religious rituals together.
There also such a village tradition celebrate Ngembak Geni in unique way as in Sesetan, South Bali for its Omed-omedan or ‘The Kissing Ritual’, as well celebrate in India as Ugadi.
To plan your Nyepi escape, unlock the Magic of Nyepi Day in Mara River Safari Lodge. As a place to embrace the African Wildlife Experience in Bali, let’s experience Silence Day Package!
