'Wana Kretih' ritual to protect Bali from bad influences

'Wana Kretih' ritual to protect Bali from bad influences

Murdani Usman, The Jakarta Post, Tabanan, Bali

The devout Balinese Hindu community believe the series of
natural disasters, including floods, landslides, sea storms, that
have hit Bali in the last two months was caused by disharmony in
managing their land.

For hundreds of years, the Balinese people have maintained a
tradition to keep their nature in balance. The disharmony later
caused many troubles for the island's inhabitants.

The Hindu holy book of Veda has given a clear direction to its
believers on how to spiritually safeguard the sea, lakes, rivers
and forests. The harmonious nature will bring prosperity to its
people and any destructive actions will affect the island's state
of equilibrium.

In mid February, for instance, Bali was hit by floods in
Kubutambahan and Tejakula villages in Buleleng regency, North
Bali that claimed five lives. A landslide in Pancasari village in
the Bedugul resort area also claimed a life. Another landslide in
Gianyar regency in South Bali caused serious environmental
damage.

On March 29 and March 30, Bali witnessed one of the most
important rituals called Wana Kretih in an attempt to return the
island to its natural balance.

It aimed to spiritually safeguard forests from any destroying
influences.

The ceremony, attended by thousands of Hindu followers, was
held at the Pura Luhur Batukaru temple on the slopes of Batukaru
Mountain in Tabanan regency.

It is believed that Hyang Sangkara, a manifestation of Sang
Hyang Widhi as the protector of plantations, is residing at Pura
Luhur Batukaru. The ceremony was held to seek Hyang Sangkara's
protection over the forests and mountains of Bali.

Batukaru itself is one of Bali's thickest forest areas.

Concurrent rituals also took place on the eight mountain peaks
of Bali and at several major temples, including the mother temple
Besakih, Lempuyang, Andakasa, Batur, Goa Lawah, Uluwatu and
Puncak Mangu temples.