Bali is a beautiful Indonesian island that is famous for its beaches and exotic landscapes. However, beyond its natural beauty, Bali has a vibrant culture that is worth exploring. In this blog post, we will dive deeper into some of these cultural aspects.
Religion and Rituals
The island’s main religion is a version of Hinduism that arrived on the island around the 8th century, blending with Buddhism and other indigenous beliefs. Balinese temples, or “pura”, are an essential part of daily life and serve as the focus of religious and cultural activities. Another interesting thing that you might witness while interning in Bali, is that Balinese people make offerings to their gods three times a day. These offerings, called Canang Sari, are small baskets made of coconut leaves and filled with flowers, rice, and other small items. The offerings are placed in temples, on the streets, and outside homes and businesses, as a way of showing gratitude and respect to the gods.
Social Customs
Balinese social customs are heavily influenced by their religious customs. The culture is deeply rooted in community and family values, and the Balinese people place a high value on social harmony and respect. One of the most famous social customs in Bali is the concept of Tri Hita Karana, which means “Three Causes of Prosperity.” The concept highlights the importance of achieving a balance between humans, nature, and the gods.
Traditional Arts and Crafts
Bali is also known for its traditional arts and crafts, which have been passed down through generations. Balinese craftspeople are skilled in woodcarving, silverwork, painting, and weaving. The island’s traditional art forms are not just beautiful, but they also have cultural and religious significance. Batik is a traditional art form in Bali, where wax is applied to fabric before being dyed. The process creates delicate and beautiful patterns and designs, with each one having its meaning and significance.
source: Indonesia Travel
Balinese Traditional Dress
Balinese traditional dress and fashion are an important part of the island’s cultural heritage and reflect the pride and identity of the Balinese people. While Balinese traditional dress is still prevalent on the island, it has also evolved to include modern fashion trends. For example, many young Balinese people today combine traditional clothing with contemporary fashion, creating a unique fusion of styles. One of the most iconic pieces of Balinese traditional dress for women is the kebaya, a tight-fitting blouse made of silk or cotton, often decorated with lace. The kebaya is worn with a long sarong, a fabric wrapped around the waist and legs, which is often brightly colored and patterned. Men’s traditional dress often consists of a shirt, or “baju”, paired with a sarong or pants.
Bali’s culture is a fascinating and immersive experience for visitors. Bali Work Group is committed to promoting cultural understanding and respect, and we, therefore, encourage our interns to immerse themselves in the island’s culture, and to learn and appreciate the customs and traditions of this beautiful island.