Kebo Iwa: The Giant Who Shaped Bali’s Legends and Landscape
Bali is a land of lush landscapes and vibrant cultures, rich in myths and legends. Amongst these, the tale of Kebo Iwa stands out for its poignant narrative and profound themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the seismic power shifts that altered Bali’s past. Kebo Iwa, meaning “Uncle Buffalo,” was a figure of immense strength and
The Origins of Tajen in Indonesia: A Time-Honoured Tradition
Cockfighting, known locally as tajen or sabung ayam is not merely a pastime in Indonesia; it is a cultural institution deeply intertwined especially with Bali’s spiritual beliefs. Today, it is a familiar image of wicker baskets lining roads around Indonesia, housing roosters as they are toughened up with traffic sounds. In this article, Sake Santema
Balinese Artist Mangu Putra’s Momentary Blurring of a Historical Timeline
An archival Black & White photograph dated 20 September, 1906, depicts a transport boat, part of the naval forces of the Sixth Military Expedition of the Royal Dutch East Indies Army, anchored offshore of Sanur, Bali. Colonial machines of war, equipment, soldiers, and horses disembark into landing vessels bound for Padang Galak beach. Naval artillery
Five Elements of Life: Pancha Mahabhuta Exhibition at The Apurva Kempinski Bali
For the 2024 Powerful Indonesia: Bhinneka Tunggal Ika program in parity with Indonesia’s 79th Independence Day, award-winning hotel The Apurva Kempinski Bali publicly presents the Gallery of Art ‘Pancha Mahabhuta’ Exhibition from 17 August to October 2024 in their Pendopo Lobby. An exclusive idiosyncratic voyage awaits, wherein renowned artists I Made Griyawan and Teja Astawa
Joey Alexander with Andien Melodise at Padma Musical Series: A Night of Jazz
The next chapter in the Padma Musical Series on 21 September 2024 will be A Night of Jazz with renowned Balinese jazz music artist Joey Alexander, whose show at the venue sold out in advance last year, and guest starring beloved world-class Indonesian singer Andien. Joining them in the Plumeria Grand Ballroom will be two
The Culture of Kites in Bali: A Show of Community and Creativity
From June to September, cool winds from the Australian winter blow across the island’s south coast, and the combination of warm sunshine and beach breeze make for a most delightful climate. Whilst visitors relish in the perfect sunbathing weather, the Balinese capitalise on this auspicious meteorology to engage in the island-favourite pastime: flying kites! •
The Origin of Uluwatu and Why Fishermen Cannot Become Rich
Once upon a time there lived a man by the name of Kama Jaya in the village of Kelam, by the beach of Bali Dwipa, now better known as the island of the gods. Nature endowed him generously with wide, well-built shoulders and a good, strong chest. He sported a luxurious moustache and his seemingly
Otherness, Nationalism & Balinese Identity
The following is an excerpt from the book, “Bali, 50 Years of Changes” by author Eric Buvelot together with socio-ethnologist and renowned Bali expert Jean Couteau. The book is the result of 20 hours of discussion about changes that have happened in Bali since the 70’s. The conversation was structured and segmented according to many
Bija: Blessed Grains of Rice
Upon leaving the temple, grains of rice are often seen stuck to the forehead and necks of worshippers, both on women and men. This particular rice is called bija, and signifies being in a state of holiness. During worship ceremonies, Balinese Hindus not only receive tirta (holy water, referred to as nunas tirta), but also bija (referred
The Spice Islands of Indonesia: A Brief History Told Through Old Maps
Sake Santema, from Indies Gallery, showcases a collection of his antique maps featuring early depictions of the Spice Islands. These maps offer unique insight into how, back in the day, spices held a high value even comparable to gold. Spices have been a cornerstone of global commerce for thousands of years, shaping the course of
Bali Meets France: Fostering Cross-Cultural Exchange in Design
Bali is renowned for its rich traditional heritage and the exceptional creativity of its inhabitants. Its cultural icons blend nature’s offerings with human ingenuity, manifesting in sacred ritual implements, architecture, textiles, painting, sculpture and an array of implements for daily life. The island showcases human expression at the highest levels, with superb attention to detail,
Fallen Angels: Indonesia’s Bird of Paradise
The bird of paradise, Cendrawasih in Bahasa Indonesia, holds a special place as a symbol of New Guinea and Indonesia, drawing visitors from around the globe to witness these majestic birds in their natural habitat on the second largest island in the world. However, for centuries, these birds remained as mysterious as the prized spices
‘Repurposing: Paradise’ Exhibition A Social Commentary on the Current State of Bali Through Art
An aptly timed art exhibition is on display at the classic Ubud resort, Amandari. Created in collaboration with NONFRASA Gallery, ‘Repurposing: Paradise’ features curated pieces that question the island’s status as a ‘paradise’, presenting an artistic commentary on this long-held reputation. On display from 4 May to 30 June 2024, the exhibition features works by