culture
Bali’s Cultural Book Series : NOW! Bali Publications
NOW! Bali, a Bali-based magazine under the Phoenix Communications company, has published 4 books about Bali , called the Cultural Book Series. Each book captures a different aspect of the island’s complex and beautiful culture and the people’s way of life: Over NOW! Bali’s 10 years in printed publications, with now 120 editions of the
Metatah : A Balinese Teeth Filing (Done with Style)
Its not every day that some well placed person in Ubud society organises a huge metatah or tooth filing ceremony for her greater family, it was an affair to remember. Without mentioning any names, the event took place at the popular Honeymoon Guest House where twenty two children or young adults had their front teeth filed
The Arts of Malang
The east Java town of Malang is soaked in history and surrounded by nature. With that being said, for this issue’s Archipelago Diaries, NOW! Bali’s Alistair Speirs indulged himself in a Malang establishment, where arts take centerstage. Imagine a hotel whose purpose is to preserve and glorify art. Imagine a hotel where every room is
Rejang Renteng: A Dance of the Older Generation
Balinese dances eloquently charm audiences with their signature basic movements, eye movements and curvy nature of the female dancers. Almost all of the dances on the island boast bright colours and glittery costumes. All of this is not presented in Rejang Renteng. Rejang Renteng is a variation of the Rejang Dance – the sacred dance
Cultural Appreciation : Teaching Kids Balinese Culture
Culture plays an important role in how children make sense of the world around them. Children’s connection to their culture develops through their experiences. As adults, we should help them connect with their cultural identity by supplying warm and secure emotional connections. This helps the young minds build a positive cultural identity for themselves, as
How Balinese Criticise Those They Love The Most : Their Priest
When Westerners think of Balinese priesthood, they are usually awed and, accordingly, embarrassed by “excessive respect”. It must be said that the view of a pedanda priest, lotus-sitting on his platform and jingling his genta bell to call down the gods to the rite he is performing, is highly impressive and calls for spontaneous respect.
Ubud Run 2018
Following the previous success of last year, Wanconvex and Running Explorer are back in collaboration to invite runners all over the island to enjoy the nature of Ubud with all its beauty. Carrying the theme ‘Connecting Your Soul Into Nature’, Ubud Run 2018 will attract more local people and a strong culture of Ubud. Available
Balinese Art Patronage Now & Then
Balinese art has a rich and unique history dating back over 400 years. Originally the work of artisans from the East Javanese Majapahit Empire (13-16th Century), this special narrative style of painting expanded into Bali in 1343 when the Majapahit conquered Bali, introducing the Hindu culture, and institutions. A Short History of Balinese Art The Kamasan
Rules of Balinese Temples : The Do’s and Dont’s
Bali’s temples and holy sites are without a doubt one of the biggest pulls to the island. However, it must be remembered that these are still places of worship. So, whilst by all means you should go and appreciate the beautiful places around the island we thought we’d share the rules of Balinese temples, a
Fat Mermaid Reimagines East Meets West Cuisine in Canggu
Nestled in the coastal neighbourhood of Canggu, a new flavour comes to town, offering a modern take of the mystical Indonesian culture with an east meets west inspired menu. Only a short stroll from one of the best surf spots on the island, this restaurant represents the tropical life with a unique experience that celebrates
Budi Agung Kuswara: Art’s Real Values in Perspective
Art plays distinctive and irreplaceable roles within the development of a healthy society. Art offers us opportunities to be inspired, become more educated and aware, as well as to observe the thoughts and feelings of our fellow man. The best contemporary art is essential to our well being, having something important to say about the
Pan Kaler, Balinese Healer
There are in Bali several kinds of traditional healers. The closest to the Western idea of a doctor is the balian usada: his knowledge rests on the control and knowledge of sacred lontar books and on the availability of medicinal herbs he alone knows where to collect and how to concoct. Although the potency of
Pura Puncak Luhur Sari: The Temple of Love
William Shakespeare has his Romeo and Juliet, and Bali has its similar tragic love story. Sitting on the top of the hill in Kalianget village, North Bali, is the gravesite of Jayaprana and Layon Sari, the island’s ‘Romeo’ and his beloved ‘Juliet’. Pura Puncak Luhur Sari, or popularly known as Pura Jayaprana, is a landmark