Commemorating Nyepi, The Day of Silence – A Unique Balinese Tradition

Jack Merridew, Ogoh-Ogoh—Ubud Football Field-Red one with kids, marked as public domain, more details on Wikimedia Commons

The traditional Balinese New Year or “Nyepi Day” fell on 7th March this year and was commemorated in its unique and customary fashion of observing a day of complete silence! Quite literally the quietest day of the year on this popular island destination, Nyepi is a holiday where work comes to a halt and people generally stay indoors. That being said, tourist accommodation options and Bali beach resorts including the likes of Anantara Uluwatu Bali Resort do remain open, with some offering special Nyepi packages and activities too.

While there are no celebrations on Nyepi Day itself, the days prior are a different matter. A highlight is the traditional “Ogoh-ogoh” parade featuring effigies of demons made from papier-mâché. It is symbolic of the islanders getting rid of any disruptive elements or forces prior to the beginning of a new year. Before Nyepi, there are also Melasti pilgrimages to the ocean or near other bodies of water where purification ceremonies are performed.