Hindus to celebrate Pagerwesi day

DENPASAR (indo.com): Hindus believe that the new Pawukon cycle of "Sinta" holds special religious days, and most Balinese in the northern part of Bali (Buleleng Regency), celebrates it enthusiastically. Many some people put up "penjors" (a tall decorated bamboo poles) just as they do for Galungan, and make offerings to the deceased awaiting cremation. Celebrations are usually held at every house compound and temple throughout the island.

The peak celebration occurs on Wednesday, April 9, 2003, a day called Pagerwesi. This name is derived from two words: pager, meaning fence, and wesi, meaning iron. So Pagerwesi means "the day of the iron fence". The suggestion is that one should surround oneself with a strong fortifications against the forces of evil.

Pagerwesi day is also a day upon which an ancient battle between good and evil is celebrated. The three days preceding Pagerwesi have special names and each day is for special activities. Sunday, April 6, 2003 is the first day of Pawukon called "Banyu Pinaruh". Many people who live near the sea go to the beach at dawn and symbolically purify themselves by bathing. This is a special day for fishermen, who make offerings for their boats and nets.

Two days before Pagerwesi - Monday, April 7, - is called Soma Ribek, a day that is not widely celebrated. On Tuesday - a day before Pagerwesi Day, called "Sabuh Emas" - one is supposed to make offerings for jewelry, especially that of gold and for the Chinese coins that are often used in any kinds of offerings.

Pagerwesi Day falls twice a year, as do other Balinese Hindu celebrations such as temple anniversaries, Galungan & Kuningan day, Saraswati, Otonan (Balinese birthday celebration) and many others. Being based on the Pawukon (the rotation of moon), all are celebrated twice a year.