Balinese Hindus observe Galungan

Balinese Hindus observe Galungan

JAKARTA (JP): Balinese Hindus celebrated Galungan yesterday to
mark the triumph of Dharma (goodness) over Adharma (evil).

Balinese from all walks of life wearing colorful traditional
costumes flocked to temples for mass prayers during which they
also made offerings.

Houses and public buildings were decorated with penjor,
bamboos colorfully decorated with bunches of paddy, coconuts and
other crops symbolizing the prosperity that comes after evil is
defeated.

The bamboos were visible at the gates of almost all houses and
offices.

Activities began on Tuesday when Hindus prepared meals,
ornaments and offering for yesterday's rituals. After the
ceremonies they visited relatives and neighbors to ask for
forgiveness.

In a televised speech, Bali governor Ida Bagus Oka said
yesterday that Hindus should use the holiday as an opportunity
for introspection to ensure a healthier future.

"Goodness defeats evil and shines like the sun that turns
darkness into light," he was quoted by Antara as saying.

Galungan, which is celebrated once every 210 days, will be
followed by another holiday, Kuningan, on March 1.

According to Hindu beliefs, Galungan and Kuningan are held to
celebrate the people's victory over King Mayadenawa of Bedahulu,
who had become a symbol of injustice and ruthlessness, in the
eighth century. He forbade people from practicing their religious
beliefs.

Although Galungan is not an official holiday, even on the
predominantly Hindu island, government offices were closed.

Only "vital" institutions, such as hospitals, police stations,
telecommunications centers and post offices, were open yesterday
and Tuesday. Local residents said they did not expect businesses
to return to normal until tomorrow. (pan)