Every 210 days, Bali is wrapped in an atmosphere unlike any other—quiet yet vibrant, grounded yet deeply spiritual. This transformation arrives with Galungan and Kuningan, two of the island’s most sacred celebrations. Together, they form a 10-day period that honors the triumph of dharma (good) over adharma (imbalance or negativity), reminding Balinese families to return to harmony, gratitude, and ancestral connection.
The Meaning Behind Galungan
Galungan marks the moment when ancestral spirits (pitara) are believed to descend from the heavenly realm to visit their homes on earth. Families prepare offerings, adorn temples, and gather in prayer to welcome their ancestors with sincerity and joy.
Homes and streets are decorated with penjor—tall, gracefully curved bamboo poles adorned with coconut leaves, fruits, and rice. These penjor symbolize prosperity and the blessings of nature. For many, they also represent the mountain, a central symbol in Balinese cosmology connecting the human world to the divine.
The Spirit of the Celebration
In the days leading up to Galungan, the island moves through a series of beautifully symbolic preparations:
- Penyekeban – The day of “closing,” when bananas are stored to ripen, symbolizing beginning the spiritual journey.
- Penyajaan – A day of making sweet rice cakes, offering gratitude.
- Penampahan – The eve of Galungan, when offerings are crafted and homes are cleansed spiritually and physically.
On Galungan Day, families visit temples in their finest attire, carrying offerings filled with flowers, fruits, and woven palm decorations. It is a day of prayer, reflection, and renewal—celebrating the victory of light over darkness in the world and within oneself.
Kuningan: A Graceful Farewell
Ten days after Galungan comes Kuningan, the closing ceremony that marks the return of ancestral spirits to the heavens. The word Kuningan is linked to kuning, meaning yellow—symbolizing purity, enlightenment, and sacredness. Yellow offerings, rice, and flowers take center stage, creating a serene and heartfelt farewell.
Kuningan is believed to carry a very peaceful energy: a reminder to maintain spiritual clarity, humility, and gratitude long after the celebrations end.
A Celebration Beyond Rituals
What makes Galungan and Kuningan truly special is not only the rituals but the communal essence woven throughout the ceremonies. It is a time when families come together, generations reconnect, and gratitude becomes the heartbeat of the island. Villages glow with unity, devotion, and the timeless beauty of Balinese culture.
Ahti Interiors: Honoring Our Roots in Bali
As a brand rooted in Bali, Ahti Interiors joins the island in honoring this meaningful celebration. Our team embraces the values behind Galungan & Kuningan—balance, gratitude, connection, and the celebration of heritage.
Just as these ceremonies remind the Balinese people to return to harmony, we at Ahti are inspired to bring balance and thoughtful design into the spaces we create. We respect the culture that surrounds us and feel grateful to be part of Bali’s creative and spiritual landscape.
To everyone across the island: Rahajeng Rahina Galungan lan Kuningan.
May this sacred period bring peace, clarity, and blessings to all.
