Perang Api 2025 in Bali

The people's biggest enemy is usually they themselves. To overcome yourself is to show the ability to achieve ultimate happiness and show your strength off to the demons. The Balinese remind us of this in their own peculiar way - by fire wars. The tradition happens mostly on the eve of the Balinese New Year (Nyepi).

Perang Api Customs

The participants are sprinkled with purified water and engage in a prayer ceremony before they can start the fight. Prior to this so-called fire war, the villagers prepare torches from bamboo sticks and cloths soaked in flammable liquid. The burnt coconut husks used for kicking and torches made of dried palm for throwing also serve as the weapons for the fight. Generally, types of weapons might differ from village to village.

The main event involves participants throwing torches or coconut shells at each other. Although the tradition seems dangerous, many villagers anticipate Perang Api, with it being the last day of the Balinese year, followed by Nyepi, a day of silence. On New Year's Day, Nyepi, the island comes to a complete standstill, with residents staying home and meditating to prepare for the upcoming year.

Places to Witness Perang Api

The practice is widely celebrated in several villages across the island. The village of Unggahan in the north of Bali observes the holiday with dried leaves, known as slepan. A similar custom is also observed in various cities across Indonesia, including Mataram.