Omed-Omedan Bali 2025: Kissing Ritual – History, Ritual, Meaning, and Controversy

Omed-omedan - often referred to as the "Kissing Ritual," Omed-omedan is one of the most intriguing and unique traditional customs in Bali. Held in Banjar Kaja, Sesetan, South Denpasar, this event takes place the day after Nyepi, marking the Ngembak Geni day on the Balinese Saka calendar. In Balinese, "omed-omedan" means "pulling each other," aptly describing the essence of this ritual—a celebration involving physical interaction between the local young men and women.

Source: Liputan6

History of Omed-Omedan 

This tradition is believed to date back to the 17th century, originating from a popular tug-of-war game among the community of the Puri Oka Kingdom. Local legends tell of Ida Bhatara Kompiang, a royal elder who, disturbed by the noise of the game while ill, surprisingly found himself feeling better after watching it. He then ordered the ritual to be held annually on Ngembak Geni as a symbol of renewal and harmony.

During the colonial era, the Dutch East Indies government attempted to ban the tradition, but the Sesetan community persisted. In 1984, a cessation order was issued again due to concerns over adolescent behavior during the event. However, an incident where two pigs unexpectedly fought during the ceremony was taken as a sign that the ritual should continue, leading the community to resume the tradition.

Omed-Omedan Ritual 

The Omed-Omedan ritual begins with a communal prayer at the village temple, followed by a lively tug-of-war procession. Participants, divided into groups of men (teruna) and women (teruni), interact by pulling, hugging, and kissing each other. Pecalang, or traditional security officers, sprinkle water on participants to signal the end of each game phase, symbolizing purification and protection.

How To Do Omed-Omedan?

1. Participants perform prayers at the Pura Banjar.
2. Participants are divided into two groups: males (teruna) and females (teruni).
3. Both groups line up facing each other.
4. Alternately, one person from each group is brought forward.
5. The two youths at the front embrace.
6. Each group pulls their representatives until one of them breaks free.

Meaning and Social Benefits of Omed-Omedan

The Omed-omedan tradition in Bali aims to strengthen the bonds of brotherhood and kinship. It is also interpreted as a symbol of unity and collective prayer for blessings in the coming year. Here are some social benefits of this tradition:

• Strengthening the bond of love among community members
• Fostering ties that educate, love, and nurture
• Cultivating a sense of brotherhood
• Expressing anti-colonial spirit
• Demonstrating Bali’s commitment to preserving local wisdom amidst modernization

The Controversy of Omed-Omedan 

Source: Radarselatan

The Omed-omedan tradition in Bali, characterized by its public kissing scenes, has sparked considerable debate due to Indonesia's conservative cultural norms where public displays of intimacy are taboo. This led to a temporary ban on the tradition. However, following the ban, an unusual incident, a pig fight occurred at the same site traditionally used for Omed-omedan. The local community in Banjar Kaja interpreted this as a bad omen or a natural warning against abandoning the tradition. Motivated by this belief, they revived Omed-omedan, viewing it as essential to averting further misfortune and honoring a warning they perceived from their ancestors.

This revival not only reflects the community's respect for their heritage but also underscores the importance of Omed-omedan in maintaining local cultural identity. To the people of Bali and the broader Indonesian society, preserving ancestral traditions is a crucial priority. Despite its controversial aspects, Omed-omedan continues to be celebrated as a symbol of cultural respect and sustainability. Its unique nature not only preserves Bali's rich cultural heritage but also strengthens the community's bond by reaffirming their commitment to their customs and values.

Omed-Omedan as a Tourist Attraction

Bali is renowned for its rich culture, drawing tourists with unique traditions like the Omed-Omedan, or "Kissing Ritual." While kissing is common in many cultures, it's taboo in Indonesia, especially in public, making this ritual particularly intriguing to international visitors. Timed close to the sacred Hindu holiday of Nyepi Day, Omed-Omedan is not just a tourist draw but a vital part of Bali’s historical heritage.

As a major attraction, Omed-Omedan brings thousands to witness its uniqueness. The local community enhances the experience by presenting traditional Balinese dances and gamelan music, enriching visitors' cultural understanding and adding to the festive atmosphere of this unique celebration.

Conclusion - Omed-omedan

Omed-Omedan is not only a strong communal symbol but also a cultural attraction that draws both foreign and local tourists. By offering traditional entertainment such as typical Balinese dances and gamelan music, Bali not only maintains but also promotes its cultural wealth to the world. For a deeper experience of Bali’s cultural richness, planning a visit during Omed-Omedan offers a unique opportunity to witness and engage with a tradition that has been ongoing for centuries. Don’t forget to enhance your visit by staying at Dijiwa Sanctuaries.