Nyepi is Day of Silence” that commemorated every Isaka Warsa new year) according to Bali’s calendar. (in 2011, it will be on March 5th ) for Saka year1933. It is a day of silence, fasting, and meditation. Some rituals are celebrated before, during and after the Nyepi day.
In the three or four days prior to Nyepi Day (known as Melasti or Mekiyis), Balinese streets are filled with giant paper-march and bamboo sculpted monsters which ward off evil spirits. Proudly constructed by local Balinese youth, these larger-than-life creatures known as ogoh-ogohs are reconstructed from classic Balinese folklore as effigies to the Hindu Gods. Featuring bright colors, huge fangs, large bulging eyes, and out of control hair, they symbolize the evil spirits that must be removed from the island in order to maintain peace and harmony on Bali for the New Year ahead.
melasti
On the day prior to Nyepi Day, Tawur Kesanga, the island is exorcised from these evil looking Ogoh-Ogoh. In Hindu tradition at sunset, a procession carries the ogoh-ogoh through the main part of the village where evil spirits are said to gather. Accompanied by a haunting combination of clanging cymbals, gongs, and drums, this loud clashing and clattering noise helps to scare away any evil demons that may be lurking about. Upon reaching the nearest beach, the ogoh-ogoh are set ablaze much to the delight of onlookers as the celebratory exorcism takes place.
The following morning brings Nyepi Day, from 6 a.m. until 6 a.m. the next morning, Nyepi is a day reserved for self reflection for as such, anything that might interfere with that purpose is restricted. Residents of Bali are required to remain in their home and observe of the basic low of Nyepi are: no lighting fires; no working; no entertainment or pleasure; no traveling; and for some, no talking or eating at all. The effect of these prohibitions is that Bali’s usually bustling streets and roads are empty, there is little or no noise from TVs and radios, and few signs of activity are seen even inside homes.
The day after at 6 Am in the morning called Ngembak Geni where they can have their breakfast after having 24 hours fasting period then will be continued to visit their families and relatives for gathering.
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