The annual “kissing ritual” of Banjar Kaja in Sesetan, Denpasar, also known as Omed-omedan, is set to go ahead despite the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, though it will be limited to just three couples this time around.
The tradition is usually held on the day after Nyepi, or the Day of Silence, which falls on March 14 this year. Omed-omedan means “pull-pull” in Balinese, and is meant to signify the push and pull of positive and negative elements in the world. The tradition is believed to have been around for at least a century, though some suggest it has been around since the 17th century.
In modern times, it is considered a part of the Hindu New Year celebrations, and the main participants are limited to the youths of Banjar Kaja. The ritual involves the men and women engaging in a kissing procession, accompanied by other villagers pouring buckets of water over them.
I Made Sudama, a village official at Banjar Kaja, told local media outlets that the event will still commence next Monday.
“The Omed-omedan tradition will still be carried out, but only briefly because we will prioritize the ritual procession like the year prior while still implementing strict health protocols,” Sudama said today.
“Three couples will take part in the procession, three men and three women who have been selected.”
Sudama said the event will be closed to the public, adding that even Banjar Kaja residents are expected not to attend as spectators.
“There’s belief in our area, that whatever the condition [tradition] must still be carried out, we don’t dare not do it,” Sudama said.
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