Nyepi day is approaching, traditionally on the evening prior to Nyepi the local communities carry Ogoh Ogoh (giant monster effigies) around the streets in a noisy parade with gongs and flaming torches. The purpose of this is to frighten away the negative forces of the underworld that are an intrinsic element in Balinese Hinduism.

Ogoh ogoh is made from wood frames and bamboo intricately weaved and tied then covered with papier mache. The figure of Ogoh Ogoh is mostly evil giant like. Every Banjar has huge one and small one is for the kids – so they can carry easily.

Ogoh Ogoh are paraded around the streets on the eve of Nyepi, known as Ngrupuk. Most main roads are closed off and thousands of people gather to watch the parade. It may take up to 25 people to carry a large ogoh ogoh and each Banjar includes a team of musicians playing gamelan and sometimes male and female dancers.

Traditionally, it was just the ogoh ogoh which were paraded in the streets on the eve of Nyepi. These days it has, however, become an excuse for an ogoh ogoh festival which is judged and the winning team rewarded with a large prize.

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