Bali - Indonesia's Cultural Anomaly
- by Tania Montmon
- Published on 5/30/06
- Article views: 700
The exotic island of Bali is situated in the Pacific ocean. The economy of Bali thrives basically on tourism. Bali has the same importance for Asia as Hawaii islands have to the United States. Bali was earlier a Dutch colony and became an important destination for cruise ships in 1920s. The word of its beauty spread when cruise ships and other tourists started pouring in to Bali.
Bali's culture is an interesting contrast to the main island of Java. The ethnic Balinese people are for the most part Hindu. The wave of Islam that swept through much of Indonesia bypassed Bali. While the Hinduism they practice is fundamentally the same as in India, the customs and daily practices are unique.
On the island of Bali the cultural differences with respect to Indian Hinduism can be found in their temple styles, ceremonial offerings, rites and rituals. Balinese cultural rites are based on the belief in reincarnation.
The society in Bali is organized strictly according to Hindu caste system. Peoples name grants a special place to them in the society. The Hinduism practiced in Bali is a mixture of Hindu, Buddhist and their own indigenous customs. These Hindu and Buddhist customs would have reached the island centuries ago. Though in the present day the Buddhist population is very less.
Till World War II, Bali was a Dutch colony. Then the Japanese took over the island. Finally Indonesia gained independence in 1949. Before this period Bali was ruled by the island of Java and its own rulers as well. Bali has a very ancient history. People lived here even in prehistoric times. Since it is such an old culture, there is a mix and plethora of customs and traditions which the people have imbibed over the centuries and still follow.
Bali has also had tough times. In 1965 General Suharto came to power and started a long uprising against the communists on the island. During this uprising movement thousands of people were killed. All the same the economy and the tourist industry grew during the rule of General Suharto.
Bali is a place of ancient traditions and Hindu culture.
Despite all the cultural mixes and the interruptions it has had over the years, Bali is still remains a unique and traditional culture. Despite the fact that many traditional communities were uprooted during the Suharto regime, the population of Bali is still bathed in tradition and follows its ancient cultural practices. The Balinese culture has survived all the shocks and waves of change experienced by its neighbors, the people still do not take their traditions and culture for granted. They honor these traditions every day and there are many organizations that are working towards preserving these cultural traditions for the future.
Tania Montmon is the webmaster of Bali Inc. which is the premier resource for Bali information.
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