'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.