NYEPI 2020 : STAY AT HOME?

Every year, Balinese always celebrate a certain event, but strangely it isn't celebrated like Christmas, when everyone exchange gift, held a special dinner, and even host a big party. On this particular day, the entire island of Bali shut down. No traffic, no business, and even the entire airport shut down, including no flights, landing, or taking off for 24 hours. In conclusion, no activities at all. And this unique day is called Nyepi, which means "to keep silent" in the local language.

What is Nyepi?

Nyepi is a Hindu celebration that is commonly celebrated in Bali, Indonesia. It is considered a public holiday in Indonesia as it is a day of silence, fasting, and meditation for the Balinese. On Nyepi day, which is New Year’s day in the Balinese Saka Calendar, the entire island of Bali turns off all lights and sounds, stops all traffic, deserts all worldly activities, and meditates, while complete silence and serenity. Luckily for travelers or tourists, they can still do things, but only indoor activities, and also they mustn't let any light be seen from outside. What If you don't obey the rules? There are the watchmen, known as pecalang, ascertain that this rule is strictly obeyed. That's why if you go wandering off the streets during this day, you will certainly be sent back to your homes or hotel.

Nyepi always comes on different dates every year. And this year, It falls on March 25th, 2020.

How about the rituals?

Procession of Bhuta (demons) before Nyepi

3 or 4 days before Nyepi, people will perform The Melasti Ritual, which is dedicated to Sanghyang Widhi Wasa and performed in Pura (Balinese temple). It followed by The Bhuta Yajna Ritual, a ritual to vanquish the negative elements and create balance with God, Mankind, and Nature. This is when the Balinese parade along the streets by holding fire torches and play the kulk'ul (traditional bamboo bells). There is also a procession of Ogoh-Ogoh, which are demonic statues made of richly painted bamboo, cloth, tinsel, and styrofoam. Then, Ogoh-Ogoh will be burned on fire in the open field. 

The Nyepi Rituals itself are performed as Amati Geni (No fire or light, including no electricity), Amati Karya (No working), Amati Lelunganan (No traveling), Amati Lelanguan (No revelry/self-entertainment).
The day after Nyepi is called Ngembak Geni. On this day, Balinese Hindus visit their families, neighbors, and relatives to exchange forgiveness. At last, The Dharma Shanti Rituals is performed by reciting Sloka, Kekidung, and other religious scriptures.


Nyepi 2020

Although various rituals are expected to be performed. Unfortunately, this year is different. Usually, the day after Nyepi, people will perform Ngembak Geni, but Bali's governor, Wayan Koster, releases an appeal letter for Balinese to stay at home after Nyepi day. It is 45/Satgascovid19/II/2020 and released on March 23rd. On 26th March 2020, there are 6 positive cases of COVID-19 on Dewata Island consist of 2 Balinese and 4 foreigners. Moreover, two of them have already passed away. That's why the government took immediate action to limited the religious traditions so that it will minimize human contacts. Several districts follow this up by closing public spaces, such as markets on this specific day. Others strictly restricted outdoor activities during Ngembak Geni, especially transportation.  People are required to work from home, except for the medical teams, police, and other needed for urgent situations. Companies that can't fulfill this must prepare a place to stay for employees and their necessities. Even, the government of Bangli applies lockdown, and give the task to bendesa, perbekel, and pecalang to guard places.

Some people said that it feels like a two-day Nyepi because the instruction to stay at home. But remember, although a tradition is important, but our safety is more important. So, don't forget to stay healthy for your sakes and others.


Written by: Angeline L. / XIA1