Posted by Ni Luh on Saturday, 27. February 1999 at 13:51 Bali Time:
In Reply to: festivals in April ?? posted by Colleen on Saturday, 27. February 1999 at 13:08 Bali Time:
Om Swatiastu Colleen,
First of all, Galungan and Kuningan should be in mid-June this year. Sorry, you won't see those festivals. Usually, the Barong walks in the streets in order to cleanse the village from evil influences, and also the villagers can pay their homage to Him. These days are really joyful. Shops are often closed (esp. in small villages), only a few warungs are open, because everybody is busy preparing the ceremonies and attending them. People can walk more than 10 kms in their day by following the Barong and bringing offerings to temples.
However, do not desesperate to feel this joy in Bali : there are many other smaller festivals (ceremonies) going around. I don't have my calendar with me right now (because I am travelling abroad) but by the end of March, I will be back home (Bali) and then I could tell you dates of ceremonies in various village temples. I am going back home because I am preparing my wedding (an other big festival for my family !) scheduled between Nyepi -18 March - and Galungan days.
As you like, I will be happy to meet you in April and accompany you to give you an insight about ceremonies, preparation of offerings (I hold a Master's degree about this topic from London), and joy in Bali !
Hope to see you,
Matur Suksma
Ni Luh
niluhmade@hotmail.com