Bali is a land of rich traditions and vibrant ceremonies, but perhaps one of the most fascinating and visually striking traditions is Ogoh-Ogoh. This spectacular part of the Nyepi celebrations isn’t just a festival – it’s a deeply spiritual event that carries centuries of Balinese culture, myths, and community rituals. It’s the kind of experience that stays with you long after the fire is out.
This year, we had the privilege of joining the Banjar Abiantimbul Intaran, a community group known for their dedication to this ancient practice, as they crafted their Ogoh-Ogoh for the Ngrupuk Night. From the first concept sketch to the final brushstroke of paint, it was clear this was about more than just creating a sculpture. It was an act of purification, storytelling, and communal collaboration. We want to take you on a journey through the Ogoh-Ogoh Creation process and share the deeper meaning of this tradition with you.
If you’re looking to explore Bali’s culture beyond its beautiful beaches and temples, check out our Bali destination guide for more ideas. If you’re looking for a more personal way to experience Bali’s traditions and rituals, our local guides can take you beyond the usual sights and into the heart of Balinese culture – wherever your trip takes you.
What is Ogoh-Ogoh?
At its core, Ogoh-Ogoh are large, often terrifying sculptures made from bamboo, paper, and other materials, designed to represent negative energies, demons, or mythical figures. Their creation is an essential part of Nyepi, the Balinese Day of Silence. But to fully appreciate the Ogoh-Ogoh, it’s important to understand the significance of Nyepi and the role these figures play in the purification process.
Nyepi is a day of silence, a day when the entire island of Bali shuts down for introspection, fasting, and spiritual renewal. It’s a profound moment for the Balinese people, as they reflect on the past year and prepare their minds and spirits for a new beginning. But before the silence of Nyepi settles over the island, there’s a ritual cleansing, and that’s where Ogoh-Ogoh comes in.
The Ogoh-Ogoh are paraded through the streets on the night before Nyepi, known as Ngrupuk Night. This event is one of the most exciting and energetic parts of the Nyepi celebrations. It’s a night where the community comes together to celebrate life, art, and their shared stories. The Ogoh-Ogoh figures are carried through the streets, and their size, detail, and ferocity symbolize the negative forces the community wishes to expel.
The History and Meaning of Ogoh-Ogoh
The tradition of Ogoh-Ogoh dates back centuries, rooted in both the spiritual beliefs of Bali and its mythology. In Balinese culture, it is believed that the night before Nyepi is the time to rid the island of bhuta kala, or evil spirits and negative forces. The Ogoh-Ogoh are representations of these evil spirits, often grotesque, frightening, and exaggerated in their features. The larger-than-life size of these figures serves as a way to confront and ultimately overcome these malevolent energies.
| Want to understand more about Bali’s spiritual traditions? Learn more about Balinese Hinduism here.
Historically, the Ogoh-Ogoh were made with a simpler design, but over time, the tradition has evolved, and the sculptures have become increasingly intricate and creative. What was once a simple effigy made of bamboo and fabric is now a highly detailed work of art, showcasing the talents of local artists. These figures are often inspired by Balinese mythology, demons, and gods, but the designs can also reflect contemporary issues, societal problems, and personal stories. This evolution is part of what makes Ogoh-Ogoh such a dynamic and deeply personal tradition.
What’s fascinating is that the Ogoh-Ogoh don’t just represent evil spirits – they also represent transformation. Burning the Ogoh-Ogoh symbolizes the destruction of these spirits and the cleansing of the island, but it also marks a renewal for the people. The burning is not just an act of fire – it’s an act of purification, a release of all the negative energy from the past year, allowing the community to start fresh.
The Ngrupuk Night: A Celebration of Life and Purification
Ngrupuk Night, the night before Nyepi, is the pinnacle of the Ogoh-Ogoh festival. It’s a night where the streets are filled with excitement, music, and vibrant energy. The Ogoh-Ogoh figures are carried by groups of men and women, often accompanied by gamelan music, and paraded through the streets in a dynamic procession. The figures are meant to create noise, movement, and energy – everything opposite of the quiet and stillness that Nyepi demands.
But there’s more to Ngrupuk Night than just the spectacle. The procession is not only a celebration of life but also a public act of purification. As the figures are paraded through the streets, it is believed that the evil spirits and negative energies attached to them are also being driven away from the community. The procession builds to a climactic moment where the Ogoh-Ogoh are burned – an act that symbolizes the complete removal of these negative forces.
The sense of unity during Ngrupuk Night is palpable. People of all ages come together, often from different walks of life, to participate in this communal event. The joy and energy are contagious, and it’s hard not to be swept up in the fervor. But beyond the excitement, there’s a deep reverence for the tradition. The act of burning the Ogoh-Ogoh is a reminder that transformation is necessary for growth. It’s about cleansing the spirit, mind, and environment in preparation for a new beginning.
Banjar Abiantimbul Intaran: Crafting the Ogoh-Ogoh
The Banjar Abiantimbul Intaran we’ve been following throughout this process is a perfect example of the dedication and artistry that goes into making the Ogoh-Ogoh. This local community group works together with incredible precision and care to create figures that are not just beautiful but carry deep meaning. Every detail, from the fierce expressions on the faces of the demons to the intricate patterns on the costumes, tells a story.
During our time with them, we were amazed by the meticulous planning and effort that went into the creation of their Ogoh-Ogoh. It wasn’t just about building a large figure – it was about building a piece of art that carried their hopes, fears, and aspirations. The community spirit that surrounded the creation process was moving. Everyone had a role to play, and each contribution, no matter how small, was essential to bringing their vision to life.
As we followed the progress, we witnessed the Ogoh-Ogoh evolve – from the bare bamboo skeleton to a fully painted, fearsome figure. The craftsmanship was impressive, but what really struck us was the sense of purpose behind each stroke of paint and bend of the bamboo. These figures were not just for the parade – they were a reflection of the community’s spirit and a powerful representation of their shared journey.
The Spiritual Essence of Ogoh-Ogoh: A Renewal for the Soul
The burning of the Ogoh-Ogoh on Ngrupuk Night is not just a fiery spectacle; it’s a deep spiritual practice that connects the community to its roots. It’s a ritual cleansing, a symbolic act that purges the negativity from the past year, both for the individual and for the community as a whole. It’s a reminder that, just like the figures, we too must release the things that no longer serve us in order to grow and start anew.
Witnessing this process, especially with the Banjar Abiantimbul Intaran, was an incredibly humbling experience. The passion, artistry, and spirituality that go into creating these effigies are truly awe-inspiring. This is a tradition that is both deeply personal and universally significant – one that connects the people of Bali to their ancestors, their community, and the land itself.
When and Where to Experience the Ogoh-Ogoh Parade
If you want to witness the parade in all their fearsome glory, mark your calendar for March 28, 2025 – the night before Bali’s sacred Day of Silence, Nyepi. As the sun sets, the streets come alive with processions, music, and the rhythmic chants of the crowd, creating an electrifying contrast to the stillness that follows. Some of the best places to experience the parade include:
- Denpasar, Puputan Square.
The heart of the city’s celebrations, where the largest and most elaborate Ogoh-Ogoh are paraded. The atmosphere here is intense, with thousands gathering to watch the figures make their final journey before being set ablaze. - Ubud, Ubud Palace & Monkey Forest Road.
A more intimate yet equally mesmerizing experience. The Ubud community takes immense pride in its craftsmanship, and the Ogoh-Ogoh here often feature intricate details inspired by Balinese mythology. - Kuta & Legian.
A mix of tradition and modern energy. Expect big crowds, loud cheers, and a dynamic, festival-like atmosphere as the Ogoh-Ogoh are carried through the streets. - Sanur, Bypass Ngurah Rai & Pantai Segara Ayu.
A great place to witness the parades without the overwhelming crowds of Denpasar or Kuta. Sanur’s processions feel more community-driven, offering a closer look at the tradition. - Local Villages & Banjars.
For a truly immersive experience, visit a village or banjar where the community gathers to perform the ritual in a more traditional setting. The connection between the people, their Ogoh-Ogoh, and the stories they tell is something you won’t forget.
Wherever you choose to watch, the energy of Ngrupuk Night is undeniable. It’s an unforgettable blend of chaos and purification, a celebration of storytelling, and a moment of collective renewal before the stillness of Nyepi takes over.
Pro Tips for Watching the Ogoh-Ogoh Parade
- Arrive early – The best spots fill up quickly, especially in Denpasar and Ubud. Get there before sunset to secure a good view.
- Respect the procession – Avoid crossing in front of the Ogoh-Ogoh as they’re being carried. This is not just a performance but a sacred ritual.
- Dress comfortably – You’ll be on your feet for a while, so wear comfortable clothes and shoes. A sarong is always a respectful choice.
- Prepare for loud noises – Between the gamelan, firecrackers, and crowd cheers, Ngrupuk Night can get loud. If you’re sensitive to noise, consider bringing earplugs.
- Be mindful of Nyepi – Once the parade ends, Bali goes into full silence mode. Stock up on essentials beforehand, as everything – including the airport – will be closed for 24 hours.
Stay Tuned for the Full Video
We’ve captured some truly magical moments of this process, and we can’t wait to share the full video with you soon. The journey of creating these Ogoh-Ogoh has been incredible, and we want to take you behind the scenes to see it all come to life. Be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel and follow us on Instagram to stay updated.
If you’re ready to experience Ogoh-Ogoh firsthand, learn about Bali’s rich culture, and dive deeper into these amazing traditions, we’re here to guide you. Check out our Bali destination guide and explore our private day trip guide for the ultimate Bali experience.
