The Balinese people are very open to sharing their unique cultural heritage and the spiritual wisdom they have nurtured over centuries. Visitors to Bali will be warmly welcomed to most temples and ceremonies. There are, however, certain codes of conduct that visitors should follow to offer respect for the Balinese and their culture.
When attending a temple ceremony, remember that it is not a party but a celebration to welcome the gods down to earth. Balinese always, no matter how many hardships they may face in their material life, put on their finest traditional clothing as a gesture of respect to both the worldly hosts of the event and the divine guests. Women wear a sarong, a long length of cloth wrapped from waist to ankles, a lacy blouse called a kebaya, and a sash tied around the waist. They will often tie up their hair in elaborate styles, and decorate it with fresh tropical flowers. If they own a piece of precious gold jewelry, they will wear it, and they will wear makeup and lipstick, for the Balinese gods delight in beauty. Men as well will be sure to dress respectfully, in a sarong, their best shirt or ceremonial jacket, a sash around the waist and an elaborately folded headdress (Udeng). The Balinese are thrilled to see visitors wearing Balinese ceremonial dress and deeply appreciate the respect it shows. So if you want to share the experience of attending a ceremony, ask a Balinese friend or someone in your hotel to help you find the correct clothing and show you how to wear it.
(more…)
Loading ...