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Community In Unity. Imlek in Denpasar 2025…The following post is a visual gallery of the 5th Chinese New Year Festival in Denpasar Bali. Begun by I Ketut Siandana, supported by I,G,N, Jaka Pratidnya and Jro Gede Kuning. A celebration not only by those of Chinese ethnicity but also shows the unique fusion between Balinese and Chinese culture.
This article is a repost. It was initially published on February 7, 2025, at sawidjistudio.com.
Photography by ManButur Suantara, Dian Dewi Reich.
The Ritual and Festival
The history of Chinese New Year in Indonesia can also be seen in the courtyard of Puri Agung Jro Kuta Denpasar. Here, the acculturation of local culture with Chinese ethnicity is visible. They go together hand in hand, blending, making the Chinese New Year atmosphere in the centre of Denpasar very unique. Is not simply Chinese; it is enriched by interrelationship and acculturation with Balinese culture. When we are experience this festival it is unlike any other.
Acculturation In Sing Bie Temple
Sing Bie Temple, located in the middle of Denpasar city, is an important part of this Chinese New Year ritual. The blend of Balinese and Chinese culture is visible and felt. For example, there are several sacred Balinese masks that appear together with the Chinese Deities, Barongsais and Naga, in this Chinese Temple.
It is important to note that Gajah Mada Street also known as The Chinatown, and a central shopping area in Denpasar.
During the Chinese New Year celebration this time, the streets decorated with a red lantern. Many activities and festivals are hold here for Imlek (Chinese New Year).
The hustle and bustle of the streets that is usually noisy with the sound of cars and motorbikes, is replace by the sound of drums, cymbals, and loud cheers from everyone celebrating. And, of course, the loud explosion of fireworks.
The spirit of collaboration and togetherness was something we truly enjoyed.
Community In Unity. Imlek in Denpasar 2025
It does not end in Gajah Mada Street. The lively procession moves toward Pasar Badung. Where more performances atract a happy audience. In the courtyard of Melanting Temple in Pasar Badung gathering of Barongsai, wushu, Legong and others Balinese dances come together.
Not to be forgotten, in this Chinese New Year celebration, 2025 servings of Nasi Bungkus were shared among the audiences. Always the same number as the relevant year.
Photography by Dian D Reich and ManButur Suantara
In the following images, we add some extra photographs where we can see the atmosphere, crowd, dance performances and faces of people in the courtyard of Melanting Temple.
Photography by Dian D Reich and ManButur Suantara
Special Thanks
We would like to give a special thanks to Ketut Siandana, Jro Mangku Gede Kuning, and all our extended friends from the communities who were involved and so ready with their open hospitality and smiles. Thank you for a wonderful Chinese New Year 2025.
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