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27 Mar 2025 10:15

Nyepi, Bali's Day of Silence

How Bali’s Silence Day Affects Artisans & Me

Nyepi, Bali’s Day of Silence, is one of the most sacred Hindu celebrations on the island. It marks the Balinese New Year according to the Saka calendar and is a time for deep reflection, purification, and spiritual renewal. Unlike other New Year celebrations filled with festivities, Nyepi is observed through complete silence, meditation, and self-restraint.

For 24 hours, from sunrise to sunrise, the entire island comes to a standstill. No one is allowed outside, businesses shut down, lights are turned off, internet is shut off and even flights are halted. The purpose of this sacred silence is to cleanse negative energies, restore balance, and allow people to reconnect with themselves and nature.

While Nyepi is spiritually significant, it also affects Bali’s artisans, who rely on daily sales from tourists and locals. Markets, workshops, and galleries remain closed, and online orders face delays due to restricted communication. Many artisans prepare in advance, boosting sales before and after the holiday to compensate for the pause in business.

Despite this temporary disruption, Nyepi reinforces values that align with traditional craftsmanship—mindfulness, patience, and respect for nature. The celebration ultimately strengthens Bali’s cultural identity, attracting visitors who appreciate the island’s traditions and, in turn, support its artisans.

As a buyer working with Balinese artisans, Nyepi has a direct impact on our operations. We have to show respect for Balinese culture but also strengthen our relationship with the artisans that we support.

Here’s what happens before, during, and after Nyepi in Bali:

Ogoh-Ogoh Parade (The Night Before Nyepi)

On the evening before Nyepi, huge demon-like statues called Ogoh-Ogoh are paraded through the streets.These statues represent negative spirits or evil forces, and the parade is meant to drive away bad energy before the new year.After the parade, the Ogoh-Ogoh are often burned, symbolizing purification.

Nyepi Day - The Day of Silence

For 24 hours, the entire island shuts down - no flights, no traffic, no entertainment, and no work.

Everyone must stay indoors, including tourists, and follow four main "Pecalang" (traditional Balinese security) patrol the streets to ensure that everyone follows the rules. They will remind people to stay indoors and keep the island in total silence.

Last but not least, Nyepi is a reminder that sometimes, "The most valuable progress comes from taking a moment to pause"

This year Silence day schedule is on : Sat, Mar 29, 2025, 5:59 AM – Sun, Mar 30, 2025, 6:00 AM

Yuli (Shared Earth Buyer and Director)

Created On 27 Mar 2025 10:15 - >>