Galungan

Bali · Hindu holiday · spiritual celebration · calendar

Victory celebration. Galungan marks the triumph of dharma (goodness and right living) over adharma (evil and wrongdoing) in Balinese Hindu beliefs. It's one of the most important festivals in Bali.

Ancestor visits. During Galungan, Balinese people believe their ancestral spirits return to Earth to visit their families. Homes are decorated and special offerings are prepared to welcome them.

Unique calendar timing. Unlike many holidays, Galungan's date isn't fixed on the regular calendar. Instead, it's calculated using the ancient Balinese Pawukon calendar, which runs on a 210-day cycle.

Kuningan conclusion. The celebration ends on Kuningan, the final day when the ancestral spirits return to the spirit world. Many Balinese celebrate by wearing traditional clothing and visiting temples.

Spiritual renewal. Galungan represents a time of spiritual cleansing and renewal for Balinese communities, marking a fresh beginning in the eternal struggle between good and evil.