The Mythology of Bali

Bali has been pronounced as one of the best places to see on earth. Its fantastic sceneries, deep blue sea, huge waves for surfing, flora and fauna, boutiques and chic restaurants, as well as accommodations like Bali luxury villas and Bali villas resort have all made this island paradise deserving to be called the island of the gods. However, apart from such beautiful resources, it is also unique and diverse especially with its culture. And this is particularly seen in the mythology of Bali.

The myths and legends in Bali have not only been made to exhibit the Balinese people’s skills in the arts but most importantly, to tell each generation the morals by which they should live their lives. Most of these myths and legends are reflected in their dance, music, drama, and puppetry.

Here are some of the myths and legends of Bali.

• The Kbo Iwo is a legend that tells about the origin of Lake Batur and Mount Batur. The account begins with a giant who was kind enough to help the villagers build their temples and other structures. In return, he only wanted to be fed. However, whenever food was not enough, he would get really mad and then begin destroying the things he made and eating the villagers. And when the villagers could not take any more, they made a plot against the giant. They deceived the giant into helping them rebuild everything, which the giant happily complied with, and then asked him to dig up a well. While the digging went on, a huge wall was formed around the giant. And when he fell asleep, the people poured lime into the wall with the giant, making it impossible for him to escape. It was thought that the well eventually became Lake Batur while the pile of earth became Mount Batur.

• The Ramayana basically means the story of Rama. It talks about a prince who was exiled by his father into the forests. He is accompanied by his brother and wife Sita. However, even if he tried to protect his family, a monster king fell in love with the prince’s wife and kidnapped her. The story now revolves around how he is able to gain back his wife.

• Antaboga. This word means the world serpent. It is a traditional Balinese mythology which speaks that at the beginning of time, it was only the antaboga that ever was created. Through meditation, it was believed to have created the turtle Bedwang, or the world turtle. And all other creations stemmed from this Bedwang.

• The Rangda, though a mythology, is believed by Balinese people to have stemmed from reality. It is the story of an evil queen who led an army of evil witches and fought against Barong, the leader of the good.

• Setesuyara and Batara Kala is the story about such goddesses of the underworld.

So if you are planning to see Bali, do not miss to see or read about such mythology and legends. You can read a book while lounging in one of the luxury Bali villas.