The ceremony known as Pagerwesi is an important part of being a Balinese, as it is celebrated across all economic backgrounds, observed with great reverence and due ceremony. If you’re on the island during the time of Pagerwesi, ensure you check in at one of the Bali luxury villas in the city such as the luxurious Alila Villas Uluwatu. Offering you stylish Bali boutique villas graced by attentive hospitality and sumptuous luxury, your time in Bali is sure to be unforgettable here. Otherwise known as Rerainan Gumi by the locals, it is celebrated every 210 days on what is known as the Wednesday of Shinta, which is the first week according to the local Pukawon calendar system. Pagerwesi translates to “iron fence”, and stands for an element of protection and self-preservation against negative influences. On the day, the Balinese people use the opportunity for intense meditation and prayer, to build up their personal defenses against evil. The chief deity believed to preside over the proceedings is Sanghyang Paramesti Guru, otherwise known as Lord Shiva, the eradicator of evil. The people of Bali spend this sacred day in prayer, making offerings, as well as visiting the temples.
Angela Fernando is an impassioned travel writer who composes pieces under the pen name Sumaira Narayan. She loves writing about new and exciting places around the world and intends to visit them all someday.