Ngaben cremation ceremony

Ngaben is the Balinese Hindu cremation ceremony, one of the most important rituals in a person's life cycle. Its purpose is to free the soul from the body so that it can continue its journey and, in time, be reborn. Rather than a time of open grief, a Ngaben is often a colorful, communal event, with music, processions and the whole village taking part.

Ceremonies can be costly and complex, so families sometimes wait months or years and hold them together, or join communal cremations organized by the village. The body or symbolic remains are carried to the cremation ground in a tall, multi-tiered tower, the bade, and placed inside a sarcophagus, often shaped like a bull, which is set alight. The ashes are later carried to the sea or a river, completing the return of the body to the elements.

Visitors are often welcome to watch a Ngaben from a respectful distance, but should behave as at any funeral. The procession can be lively, with men spinning the tower at crossroads to confuse the spirit so it cannot find its way home. Dress in temple attire, keep to the edges and avoid blocking the path. Ask your host or guide whether attending a particular ceremony is appropriate.