Bali’s Serene Beauty
Photo Essay of Cultural Delights
I had always thought that Bali was Buddhist, but the islanders practice a unique form of Hinduism which incorporates Buddhist teachings, animist traditions, and ancestral worship. Balinese Hinduism, with its focus on gratitude, beauty, and serenity, permeates every aspect of island life. It is truly marvelous to behold.
Ganesha Greeting
As I arrived at my homestay in Bali, I was greeted by Ganesha, the Hindu god of new beginnings, wisdom, intelligence, and the remover of obstacles. Many homes and businesses have Ganesha and other gods of the Hindu pantheon at their entrance. I took Ganesha as a promise of what I could look forward to this summer.
Canang Sari
Canang Sari are daily offerings of devotion, gestures of thanks, and requests for protection. As symbols of balance and harmony in the world, they are placed in household shrines, shop entrances, sidewalks, vehicles, really almost anywhere.
Each hand-crafted, palm-sized bamboo or palm leaf dedication is rich in symbolism.
The woven basket represents the creation of the universe.
Flowers are arranged in specific colors facing the cardinal directions.
Snacks serve as a token of sustenance and gratitude.
The smoke of incense carries prayers up to the divine.
Small money symbolizes selflessness and sincerity.
The custom is not to step on or over a Canang Sari while the incense is still burning, but to walk carefully around it. Once the incense has burned out, the devotion has served its purpose, and the talisman is left to disintegrate or be swept away.
Kebaya & Kamen
Traditional Balinese dress is distinctive and beautiful. For special occasions, a woman will wear a kebaya, a figure-hugging long gown of lace or cotton representing femininity and grace.
Both men and women wear a kamen, a piece of fabric wrapped around their waists and hangs to the ankle. Each kamen has a different pattern and style. A sash is also tied around the waist symbolizing self-discipline.
Nasi Campur
The gorgeous colors and attention to detail are also evident in Balinese food. Nasi campur is Bali’s version of a typical Indonesian and Malay dish comprising small portions of rice, meat, egg, vegetables, and peanuts. It’s as good to eat as to look at.
I admired the dedication and gentleness of Bali’s customs throughout my stay. How wonderful to live each day pursuing harmony, creating beauty, and expressing gratitude.
Thinking back, Ganesha, the Hindu god who met me at the gate, was the perfect introduction to this warm island wisdom.
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Christened “Wander Woman” by National Geographic, Erin Michelson has traveled to 140 countries & all 7 continents. She is a professional speaker and author of the Nomad Life™ series of curated trips and travel guides, including the #1-ranked Explore the World with Nomads.
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