ogoh

Ogoh refers to a type of giant effigy traditionally paraded through the streets and ritually burned on the night before Nyepi, the Balinese Day of Silence. These elaborate creations, often depicting mythological demons, evil spirits, or contemporary societal issues, are crafted by local communities. The construction of ogoh-ogoh is a significant undertaking, involving detailed sculpting, painting, and decoration, and it serves as a communal activity. The purpose behind the burning of the ogoh-ogoh is to symbolically purify the environment and the human soul of negative influences and spiritual impurities, thereby welcoming the new year with a clean slate. This practice is a vibrant and important part of Balinese Hindu culture, attracting many observers who marvel at the artistry and witness the cathartic ritual. The specific designs and themes of the ogoh-ogoh can vary greatly from village to village and year to year.