Bali's Day of Silence and Hindu New Year (Nyepi)

Nyepi is a Balinese "Day of Silence" that marks the start of the Saka new year in the Balinese Hindu calendar. It typically falls in March or April each year.

History and Significance

Nyepi stems from Hindu philosophy, which emphasizes a day of silence, fasting, and meditation as a means of self-reflection to mark the new year. The festival is meant to be a time for purification and is celebrated not only in Bali but also in other parts of Indonesia with significant Hindu populations.

Traditions

Melasti Pilgrimage

In preparation for Nyepi, Balinese Hindus perform a ritual called Melasti a few days prior. This involves a pilgrimage to the sea or other water sources to purify sacred objects from local temples.

Ogoh-Ogoh Parade

On the eve of Nyepi, there is an Ogoh-Ogoh parade where large, demon-like effigies made of bamboo and paper are paraded and later burned to drive away evil spirits.

Nyepi Observances

Nyepi itself is observed through several key restrictions:

• Amati Geni: No fire or light, including no electricity.
• Amati Karya: No working.
• Amati Lelungan: No traveling outside one's home.
• Amati Lelanguan: Fasting and no entertainment or pleasure.

These prohibitions are meant to create an environment conducive to introspection and spiritual cleansing.

What People Do on Nyepi

On Nyepi day:

• Hindus on Bali spend their day in silence, fasting, meditating, and refraining from their daily routines.
• Streets are empty as no one leaves their homes; even tourists are expected to respect the observances by staying inside their accommodations.
• The airport shuts down for 24 hours; no flights enter or leave Bali during this time.
• Internet services are usually shut down across the island.
• Public services such as hospitals remain operational but with limited staff.

The quietness that envelops Bali during Nyepi reflects its purpose: allowing nature and all living beings a day free from human disturbances.