Denpasar, Bali
Pasar Bandung
B
ali means “offering” in Indonesian and this is very important on the island. Each family has its own temple where six to eight daily offerings are made. This takes about 40% of everyone’s time. The Balinese believe that their many ceremonies—with all the flowers offered—increase the sacred energy of their island. Offerings are usually a small basket made with banana or palm leaves that holds gifts of incense, holy water, and flowers, and sometimes other things depending on the season and the occupation and wealth of the giver. Offerings are everywhere—in the rice fields to ensure a good harvest, in the cars and motorcycles for protection from an accident on the road, under the trees near the temples, and in front of each door. The Pasar Bedung in Denpasar is not for tourists (like other markets). It is spread over three levels and straddles
the river and it is the place for Indonesians to buy their offerings. It is very exciting and the place smells of spices and gorgeous flowers. Indian carnations, jasmine, ylang ylang, and frangipani flowers spread their heady scents everywhere.
Delphine Gitterman LEAF MAGAZINE
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