legends & myths

Bali: Island of Legends & Myths. Bali's lush landscapes echo with ancient tales, from mystical deities to epic sagas, creating an enchanting tapestry of culture and wonder.

Here are a few prominent ones:

The Legend of Dewi Danu and Lake Batur:

This legend tells the story of Dewi Danu, the goddess of the lake and rivers. She is believed to have protected the Balinese people from droughts and disasters. Lake Batur, one of Bali's largest lakes, is considered her abode. The legend emphasizes the importance of water and irrigation in Balinese agriculture.

The Story of Barong and Rangda:

Barong, a lion-like creature, represents good and Rangda, a demon queen, represents evil. The story of Barong and Rangda depicts their eternal struggle and is performed in traditional Balinese dance known as "Barong Dance." It symbolizes the constant battle between good and evil in life.

The Legend of Tanah Lot:

Tanah Lot is an iconic temple perched on a rock formation in the sea. The legend tells of a priest who created the temple to protect the island from evil spirits. The temple's dramatic location and the legend behind it make it a popular tourist attraction.

The Tale of Garuda and Vishnu:

Garuda, a mythical bird, is the mount of Lord Vishnu. In Balinese culture, Garuda symbolizes courage and strength. The story of Garuda and his devotion to Vishnu is often depicted in art and sculpture throughout Bali.

The Story of Calon Arang:

Calon Arang was a powerful witch who wreaked havoc on a village. A brave warrior named Empu Baradah eventually defeated her through wit and magic. This tale is often associated with the Barong dance and emphasizes the triumph of good over evil.

The Legend of Jaya and Siwa:

Jaya and Siwa were two brothers who were granted wishes by the gods. Jaya wished for wealth and power, while Siwa wished for wisdom and knowledge. The tale illustrates the Balinese value of prioritizing knowledge and spirituality over material possessions.

The Legend of Batukaru Temple:

This legend explains the origins of the Pura Luhur Batukaru temple, situated on the slopes of Mount Batukaru. It's said that the temple was built by the god Mpu Kuturan after he received divine guidance in a dream.

The Legend of Kebo Iwa:

Kebo Iwa was a legendary warrior who played a significant role in shaping Balinese culture and architecture. He is said to have single-handedly lifted massive stones to build temples like Pura Besakih, showcasing the strength and determination of the Balinese people.

The Story of Si Djinaka:

On the island of Bali, there once lived a man who was always deeply in debt. Whenever cockfights were held on the island, Si Djinaka would consistently lose, and he would borrow money for the bets, hoping to win and use the winnings to pay off his debts....

The Story of the Wise Justice:

Once upon a time, there were two villagers who had been quarreling for some time. One had borrowed a large sum of money from the other, but every time the lender asked for his money back, the borrower had an excuse not to repay the debt.....

These legends and myths are just a glimpse into Bali's rich cultural heritage. They reflect the values, beliefs, and history of the Balinese people and continue to be celebrated through various art forms, rituals, and performances on the island.