Why do People in Bali Create Huge Monsters on March?

The Balinese create giant, terrifying statues called Ogoh-Ogoh as part of a purification tradition before Nyepi. These statues represent evil spirits (bhuta kala), believed to bring negative energy into the world. Through a lively and energetic parade, the Ogoh-Ogoh are carried around the village with dance and the beat of gamelan music before being burned or destroyed as a symbol of cleansing and driving away negative forces.

This tradition is rooted in Hindu Dharma teachings, which emphasize balance between the universe and humans. The Ogoh-Ogoh parade is also a platform for creativity, especially among the younger generation, who compete to create the most magnificent and terrifying statues.

The Fiery Spectacle of Ogoh-Ogoh Parades

If you’re in Bali on the eve of Nyepi, you’ll witness an exhilarating cultural phenomenon—the Ogoh-Ogoh Parade. Massive, fearsome statues representing negative forces (bhuta kala) are carried through the streets in a vibrant and energetic procession. These hand-crafted monsters are made by local community groups (banjar), with each village competing to create the most terrifying and elaborate figure.

The purpose of this parade? To scare away evil spirits before the island enters a day of total silence. The statues, after a lively night of dance and music, are often burned as a symbolic act of purification—out with the bad, in with the good.

The Art Behind Ogoh-Ogoh Creations

Creating an ogoh-ogoh is an art form that blends tradition with modern creativity. The materials used have evolved over time:

• Bamboo – Forms the sturdy skeleton of the statue.
• Wood & Wire – Provides structure and detailing.
• Paper & Cloth – Gives shape and texture.
• Paint & Decorations – Brings the figure to life with vivid colors.
• LED Lights & Fireworks – Adds dramatic effects for the night parade.

While traditional ogoh-ogoh were made from biodegradable materials, modern versions sometimes incorporate styrofoam sorry we remove styrofoam as an aspect but we change it using clay for sparking environmental concerns. Despite this, the essence remains the same—a grand display of artistry and community effort.

Can Anyone Join the Ogoh-Ogoh Parade?

The Ogoh-Ogoh Parade is primarily organized by banjar (local community groups), and it’s a major event for young Balinese men, who dedicate months to building these intricate statues. The highlight of the parade is the ‘shake-and-spin’ performance, which represents the chaotic nature of evil forces.

But what if you’re a tourist?

While you can’t carry an ogoh-ogoh yourself, you are more than welcome to watch, take photos, and immerse yourself in the experience. If you’ve made local friends, they might even invite you to be part of the pre-parade festivities!

What Exactly is Nyepi?

Nyepi, Bali’s Day of Silence, is unlike any New Year’s celebration you’ve seen. Instead of fireworks and parties, the entire island comes to a halt. No flights, no cars, no entertainment, no lights. Even the internet and television services are turned off.

The reason? It’s a sacred day of self-reflection and meditation, helping to reset both the island’s energy and the individual’s spiritual well-being. Additionally, by making the island appear ‘empty,’ Balinese Hindus believe that malevolent spirits will pass over Bali, leaving it untouched.

For visitors, this means a once-in-a-lifetime experience of complete stillness—no distractions, just the sounds of nature.

The Digital Blackout: Is Internet Available on Nyepi?

The short answer: No.

Nyepi is a complete retreat from modern distractions, and that includes digital connectivity. In recent years, even mobile data and Wi-Fi have been deliberately switched off island-wide to encourage total disconnection.

However, some essential services, such as hospitals and emergency agencies, may have limited internet access. If you’re staying in an international hotel, they might provide minimal connectivity for urgent matters. But for the most part, it’s a day to put the phone down and embrace the moment.

What If You Need to Work on Nyepi?

Spoiler alert: You don’t.

Nyepi is a mandatory day off across the island. Offices, businesses, and even the airport shut down for 24 hours. If you’re a tourist, you must stay inside your hotel or villa. If you’re a remote worker, consider it a well-earned break.

Only essential workers, such as hospital staff, police, and emergency responders, are allowed to be on duty. But movement is kept to an absolute minimum, respecting the island’s commitment to silence.

5 Things We Do on Nyepi

Nyepi is a day of complete silence, but it is also a time for deep spiritual reflection and self-discipline. Here are five things that Balinese people do on Nyepi:

1. Amati Geni (No Fire or Light) – No electricity, no fire, and minimal use of light to symbolize self-restraint.
2. Amati Karya (No Work) – All forms of work, both physical and digital, are paused to focus on inner peace.
3. Amati Lelungan (No Travel) – No movement outside the home; even Bali’s airport shuts down for the day.
4. Amati Lelanguan (No Entertainment or Pleasure) – No TV, no music, no distractions—just mindfulness and meditation.
5. Self-Reflection and Meditation – A time to look inward, practice yoga, meditate, and appreciate silence.

For visitors, participating in these practices can offer a truly unique and peaceful experience unlike anywhere else in the world.

---

The Revival: Majelangu and Post-Nyepi Festivities

After an entire day of silence, Bali bursts back to life with Majelangu, a day dedicated to cleansing, temple visits, and family reunions. It’s a stark contrast to the quietude of Nyepi—markets reopen, people reconnect, and the streets are once again filled with energy.

In the Majelangu activity, the burning of Ogoh-Ogoh symbolizes the purification of negative energies and the eradication of evil spirits before Nyepi, the Balinese Day of Silence. The Ogoh-Ogoh, representing demons or negative forces, are paraded through the streets and then set on fire to signify the cleansing of the environment and the renewal of spiritual balance. This ritual marks the transition into a new year in the Balinese Saka calendar, promoting harmony and self-reflection.

Together, Nyepi, Ogoh-Ogoh Parades, and Majelangu form an unforgettable trilogy of spiritual and cultural experiences, making this one of Bali’s most significant celebrations.

A Celebration Like No Other

Nyepi is not just a holiday—it’s an experience. Whether you’re watching the dramatic Ogoh-Ogoh Parades, embracing the silence of Nyepi, or celebrating renewal with Majelangu, this is Bali at its most authentic. If you ever get the chance to witness these traditions firsthand, don’t miss it.

Bali doesn’t just celebrate the new year; it resets, refreshes, and welcomes it with both fiery chaos and peaceful reflection.