Ritual transforms streets of Bali into a parade of colors and spirituality

With their bodies covered in colorful paintings, masks and symbolic clothing, participants of different ages paraded through the community in a procession marked by music, spirituality and manifestations of Hindu-Balinese culture.

Held every 210 days, Ngerebeg aims to promote spiritual purification, protect residents and ward off influences considered negative. Tradition is linked to the search for balance between human beings, nature and the spiritual world.

During the ceremony, some participants take on the appearance of entities, mythical beings and forces of nature. The characterizations represent elements of local beliefs and reinforce the protective meaning attributed to the ritual.

The name Ngerebeg is associated with the idea of a large collective celebration or procession. For residents, the presence of symbolic figures helps to preserve the harmony of the community and prevent the approach of negative energies.

One of the best-known demonstrations takes place near the Pura Kahyangan Jagat Duur Bingin temple, in Tegallalang. According to the Visit Bali portal, the procession covers around 10 kilometers and brings together children, young people and adults.

In 2021, Ngerebeg was recognized as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Indonesia, consolidating its religious and cultural importance for the population of Bali.

See the images in the gallery above.

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