I Attended a Traditional Balinese Wedding
A Special Invitation in Taro Village
I was so fortunate to be invited by my dear friend Tanti from Java to attend a traditional Balinese wedding in Taro Village, a quiet area 30 minutes north of Ubud. Far from the tourist crowds, Taro offers an authentic glimpse into Balinese life, where Hindu traditions are deeply rooted in daily routines. The villagers’ devotion to their faith creates a spiritual atmosphere that makes every ceremony feel profoundly meaningful.
The wedding took place over two days, with the first devoted to sacred ceremonies steeped in tradition and the second to celebration; I was lucky to be invited to the first, more intimate day.
The Sacred Wedding Ceremony: A Day of Rituals and Blessings
The wedding took place entirely within the family’s compound, a large space where several generations of the same bloodline live together. Like all Balinese houses, the compound had its family temple, a sacred place at the heart of the home where rituals are performed to honor ancestors and gods.
The day began early in the morning with the Metatah ceremony, a traditional rite where a priest carefully files the upper six incisors and canines of the bride and groom. This ritual symbolizes the removal of negative traits such as anger, greed, and lust, preparing the couple for a harmonious life together.
As the sun rose over the compound, the courtyard glowed with soft golden light. The air was filled with the sounds of gamelan, a traditional Balinese ensemble of gongs, xylophones, and drums, producing a hypnotic, melodic rhythm. At key moments, the priest rang a small bell, signaling the start of important rituals and drawing everyone’s attention to the sacred acts.
The women of the household performed purification rituals in the family temple, moving gracefully with incense in hand. The fragrant smoke spiraled upwards, blending with the morning light and giving the temple an almost otherworldly aura. One of the most striking moments came when the family matriarch broke a large jar of rice, a symbolic gesture wishing abundance and prosperity for the newlyweds.
A Feast of Tradition: Culinary Delights and Sweet Offerings
After the ceremonies, guests were invited to enjoy a feast of traditional Balinese dishes. The table was abundant with capcay (stir-fried vegetables), soto ayam (chicken soup), the famous babi guling (suckling pig), tropical fruit and plenty of rice. The flavors were rich, aromatic, and perfectly balanced, reflecting the care and love that went into the preparation. Upon arrival, drinks and small sweets and snacks were offered, adding a light, joyful touch that complemented the sacredness of the morning.
As I walked through the family compound, surrounded by laughter, warm smiles, and the gentle rhythm of gamelan music, I felt completely present in the moment. The sun warmed the courtyard, the incense filled the air, and every gesture, from rituals to food, radiated devotion and joy. The day passed quickly, yet it was a rare chance to witness the heart of Balinese culture up close, a memory I will always carry.