Guwang Traditional Village: Bringing Balinese Traditions, Arts, and Local Wisdom to Life

Amid the bustle of modernization, Guwang Traditional Village, located in Gianyar, continues to radiate the charm of Balinese traditions and local wisdom. This village not only stands as a witness to Bali's long history but also serves as a home to arts and culture that thrive to this day. Originally, the village was known as Girang Village. In the 7th or 8th century, this area was part of a governance system along with nearby villages such as Ketewel Village, Rangkan Village, and Sukawati Village. Over time, Girang Village experienced leadership changes, including being under the rule of three Aryas, descendants of Arya Kenceng. Following these leadership transitions, the village's name changed from Girang Village to Guwang Village, meaning wise person. This name reflects the hope for wise and just leadership. 

Garuda Statue (Photo Source: Personal Collection)

The Garuda Statue is a symbol of Guwang Village, representing strength, wisdom, and courage. Not merely a word of art, this statue also serves as the village mascot, embodying the community's spirit in preserving and sustaining Balinese culture. In Balinese tradition, Garuda holds deep spiritual significance as the vehicle of God Vishnu, the protector deity who brings harmony and prosperity. The presence of this statue in the heart of the village not only serves as an aesthetic icon but also symbolizes protection and unity within the community. 

Guwang Barong and Keris Dance (Photo Source: Personal Collection)

One of the most renowned cultural arts in Bali is the Barong Dance. This performance depicts the battle between Barong and Rangda, representing the eternal struggle between good and evil. The dance is typically performed in temples, accompanied by traditional gamelan music. In Guwang Village, this dance is showcased daily at the Pura Dalem Guwang Village, providing visitors with the opportunity to experience the beauty of Balinese culture. Furthermore, the performance aims to raise awareness among the younger generation, encouraging them to actively participate in preserving cultural heritage amidst the challenges of modernization. 

 Mepeed (Photo Source: Personal Collection)

Mepeed is one of the traditions in Guwang Village, typically held during the pujawali ceremonies at Pura Desa and Pura Dalem Guwang. Every six months, residents from the designated banjar responsible for that period participate in this procession. They wear brightly colored traditional Balinese attire witj varying styles of adornment, ranging from payas agung to modified traditional attire. This tradition involves people of all ages, from children to adults, walking in a line accompanied by the sounds of gamelan music.

Guwang Village consists of seven administrative banjar and for every piodalan, the responsibility rotates among them. If the piodalan is held at Pura Dalem, the mepeed procession starts from Pura Dalem, proceeds straight to the Garuda Statue, and then turns right towards Pura Cengceng. If the piodalan takes place at Pura Desa, the route remains the same, as Pura Desa and Pura Dalem are located on the same road. The mepeed usually begins at 4:00 PM WITA and reaches Pura Cengceng approximately an hour later. At Pura Cengceng, the temple priests and the responsible banjar perform the nuur tirta ritual to purify the water source. After completing the ritual, they return to Pura Desa or Pura Dalem along the same route. 

Balinese Carvings (Photo Source: Personal Collection)

In addition to the mepeed tradition, Guwang Village is also renowned for its carving art, which continues to be preserved by the local community. This carving skill is not only maintained as a cultural heritage but also serves as an economic opportunity, Many carves in the village create various works of art, ranging from statues and wooden carvings to decorative ornaments for sale. These works often adorn the temples in the village and are sold at Guwang Art Market, where visitors and collectors can find a wide range of authentic carved art. Each carving produced reflects high attention to detail, creativity, and the aesthetic value embedded in every intricate design. With the continuous growth of the carving industry, Guwang Village has managed to preserve a tradition that has existed for years, making it a respected center for carving art in Bali. 

Guwang Village captivates with the natural beauty and rich Balinese culture it holds. From the Garuda Statue to the Barong Dance, every corner offers a memorable experience, reflecting the spirit of the community in preserving and maintaining their noble heritage. The mepeed tradition, held every six months during the odalan ceremony, shows that the community continues to uphold this tradition. In addition, the rapidly growing carving art at Guwang Art Market demonstrates how creativity remains alive, while also opening economic opportunities for the locals. Guwang Village is a representation of Balinese life, full of peace, harmony, and a wealth of preserved culture.