Nyepi, also known as the Balinese Hindu New Year, is a unique cultural holiday celebrated in Indonesia, primarily in the region of Bali. The holiday falls on the day after the dark moon of the spring equinox when the day and night are of approximately equal durations. Not just a New Year celebration, Nyepi is regarded as a day of complete silence. For this reason, it is often referred to as the 'Day of Silence.'
Nyepi's traditions focus heavily on self-reflection, meditation, fasting and rest. On this day, the Balinese people abstain from all activity and stay indoors to devote their time to meditation and introspection. The streets are noticeably quiet and empty, with no transportation, no entertainment, no work and even the Ngurah Rai International airport in Bali halts its operations for 24 hours. This complete cessation of activities is intended to convince evil spirits that Bali is uninhabited and thus prevent them from disturbing the island's peace.
Some unique rituals also mark the holy day of Nyepi in Indonesia. The 'Ogoh-ogoh' parade typically takes place on the eve of Nyepi, where vibrant and gigantic effigies, symbolizing evil spirits, are carried through the streets and later burnt in a public ceremony. The idea is to banish these spirits and make a clean start for the New Year. Despite the eeriness and inconveniences that the holiday may present to outsiders, many Balinese people regard Nyepi as their favorite time of the year and eagerly look forward to the spiritual satisfaction it brings.