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Kadek Dewi Aryani - Religion and Tradition "Since my family performed in the temples during the religious ceremonies, I often joined them to watch the classical dances, which depict our ancient stories. It was pure magic. I'd listen to the music, watch the dance, and imagine myself as the beautiful princess in the story. These dances left a great impression on me." The Hindu religion and tradition are the cornerstones of all our daily activities - we pray and make offerings to the gods... asking them to assist us in our endeavors.	Dewi - at Besakih temple
An integral part of our tradition are the processions. Some are non-religious (for example: art festivals - held at specific times every year, showcasing the unique artistry of every region and its villages with local arts and crafts, colorful costumes, and traditional music and dance), but most of them are of religious nature and a vital element of a temple ceremony. One important type of procession is the Mapeed, a procession where neighboring villages bring temple symbols and offerings to another village's temple. During this procession, we wear traditional costumes and the entire parade is accompanied by Beleganjur music, an energetic Balinese percussion orchestra of drums, cymbals, gongs, and gong-chimes.	Some offerings for a ceremony
All religious processions are necessary means to keep balance between god, humans, life, and the earth... or on a smaller scale: they help to maintain harmony between villages - everyone is sharing and giving thanks to the gods. After we've brought our offerings to the temple, musicians and dancers from our village will then participate in a large ceremony... that usually goes on for several days. These festivities are a welcomed chance for everyone to come together, and they help to preserve our culture and maintain our tradition(s). MORE ABOUT: DEWI | DANCE | TEACHING | FAMILY | TRADITION	Mapeed from Junjungan to Bentuyung temple