Balinese

The Balinese are an Austronesian ethnic group native to the Indonesian island of Bali. They form the island's largest ethnic group, comprising the majority of Bali's inhabitants. Most Balinese are bilingual, speaking Balinese as their first language and Indonesian as the national language; many also speak English or other languages due to tourism.

The Balinese language is part of the Austronesian family and has several dialects and registers. Most speakers use three levels of speech (alus, madya, kasar) depending on social context. Balinese has its own traditional script, but Latin script is widely used today.

The Balinese practice a form of Hinduism that blends pan-Indic Hindu beliefs with indigenous animist traditions and ancestor worship. Religious life centers on temples, or pura, and regular temple festivals, offerings (canang sari), and annual odalan milestones. Social organization includes clan groupings and caste structure, though modern Balinese societies can be diverse.

Balinese culture is renowned for its arts. Dance forms such as Legong, Barong, and kecak vocal dance, and gamelan music are prominent. Architecture, sculpture, and crafts are closely tied to temple ceremonies and agricultural life, notably the subak irrigation system, which is recognized by UNESCO.

Bali's economy traditionally relied on farming, especially rice, but tourism became a major economic sector in the 20th century. Today, many Balinese participate in tourism-related services while maintaining agricultural and craft practices. The Balinese diaspora connects Bali with Indonesia and other countries.