On May 11th, a large-scale religious ceremony called Masupati and the Ngiring Sasunuhan Ida Bhatara Dewa Ayu procession took place in the village of Jimbaran. Tens of thousands of Balinese participated — the procession stretched for miles.
The procession began early in the morning from the Ulun Siwi Temple. After prayers, the column set off towards Uluwatu — one of Bali's main spiritual centers. Here, the Masupati ritual, symbolizing spiritual cleansing and renewal, took place.
Later in the evening, there was a performance of Calanarang — a mystical play about the struggle between good and evil. The next day, participants returned to Jimbaran, completing the two-day pilgrimage.
The ceremony included one Barong and three Rangdas — traditional symbols of good and evil. Along the way, the procession stopped at temples for offerings and prayers. For participants involved in the sacred part of the procession, certain taboos applied — such as a ban on pork. Others could join without restrictions.
The Masupati ceremony is held every two and a half years — after every fifth Galungan cycle. The exact date is determined by revelations in meditation.
The procession is a form of deep devotion to Ida Bhatara Sasunuhan. In the age of technology, preserving such traditions gains special value. The main road to Uluwatu — Jalan Raya Uluwatu — was completely closed to traffic.
The procession was accompanied by Metangi rituals — ceremonies balancing universal energy (bhuta kala). Tapel Grubug masks played an important role in this, stabilizing energy during disturbances and conflicts. It is believed that if Masupati is not performed, the island may face disaster.
The main goal of the ceremony is to restore harmony between the macrocosm and microcosm, nature and humans. Barong and Rangda symbolize the balance between light and darkness, creation and destruction. Everyone is important in this process — both locals and guests seeking spiritual support.
The next day, participants returned to Jimbaran, completing the two-day pilgrimage.
Source: nusabali
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