Nyepi: Bali's day of silence
The Indonesian island of Bali is observing "Nyepi," or the day of silence, on Thursday. Internet, mobile services and airports will be shut down as the Balinese dedicate themselves to a day of self-reflection.
The ritual of observing thoughts
On "Nyepi," which will begin at 6 am local time on Thursday, March 7, Balinese will stay indoors, covering windows and keeping lights off to observe a day of reflection and meditation. It is considered the most sacred day in Balinese Hinduism.
Offerings for the deity
Balinese women wear the traditional "Kebaya," or a top made of white lace, accompanied by the Balinese sarong and a sash around the waist. They give their offerings to the Hindu god Ganesh.
Purifying the soul
Before Nyepi, or the day of silence, Hindus perform a ceremony called the "Melasti" to purify their souls. In this picture, a woman gestures as she lies in a trance.
Life with a pure heart
Children stand in front of a giant effigy or the "ogoh-ogoh," which represents evil spirits. For the Balinese, Nyepi is an opportunity to restart life with a pure heart.
Banishing evil spirits
During the night before Nyepi, Hindus celebrate with noisy processions of the ogoh-ogoh, or evil spirits. Some of the effigies are burned afterwards to destroy the negative energy they represented.
The self-stabbing ritual
A man stabs himself with traditional "Kris" daggers, considered to have magical powers. The "chosen" devotees are usually in a state of trance while trying to stab themselves. Fortunately, the daggers are not sharp enough to pierce through skin.
Ceremonial walk
Balinese men walk on the beach during Melasti, the purification festival before the day of silence. The ceremony is intended to wash away impurities and cleanse the soul.