Nyepi Segara: Honoring the God Baruna on Nusa Penida Island

Bali, often referred to as the "Island of the Gods", captivates visitors with its unparalleled beauty. Located between the Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean, the island offers enchanting beaches, stunning terraced rice fields, and a culture rich in art, dance, and profound traditional ceremonies. However, one of the most unique and fascinating aspects of Balinese culture is the celebration of Nyepi Segara, a tradition that involves profound silence and reverence for nature, particularly the surrounding seas. In this article, we will explore the allure of Bali and how its uniqueness is reflected in the captivating Nyepi Segara celebration.

Nyepi Segara is a highly specific form of the Nyepi Day celebration on the island of Nusa Penida. Nyepi itself is a Hindu holiday known as the Saka New Year's Day. However, in Nusa Penida, Nyepi is accompanied by the suspension of all sea activities. Activities such as fishing, snorkeling, and even touching the sea are prohibited for 24 hours. This tradition is followed by all island residents, from the youth to the elderly, without exception. Thus, the entire Nusa Penida community participates in this celebration.

Nyepi Segara Ceremony (Photo Source: Pujangga Nagari Nusantara)

Nyepi Segara typically falls in March or April each year, following the Hindu Saka calendar. The celebration begins at 6:00 in the morning and lasts until 6:00 the next morning. It is a time when the island truly quiets down, and all kinds of sea activities are halted.

The Nyepi Segara tradition is observed throughout the Nusa Penida island, which is located approximately 20 kilometers southeast of Bali. The island is part of Klungkung Regency and is home to around 45,000 inhabitants. Famous Nusa Penida beaches like Crystal Bay and Atuh Beach become serene, as there is no tourist activity or shipping during Nyepi Segara.

The Nyepi Segara tradition in Nusa Penida, Bali, is not just a celebration; it also has a deep and meaningful history. This tradition has strong roots in the Hindu beliefs that have been present on the island for centuries.

The Nyepi Segara tradition originates from an ancient legend related to the sea god, Baruna, who is considered the protector of Nusa Penida. Allegedly, this god became very angry when the people of Nusa Penida did not honor him and harmed the marine ecosystem. To appease the god's anger, the locals vowed to cease all sea activities for one day each year as a sign of respect and apology.

Illustration of the Sea God, Baruna (Photo Source: Pujangga Nagari Nusantara)

Over time, this tradition evolved into the Nyepi Segara that we know today. In addition to being an expression of respect for Dewa Baruna, Nyepi Segara also serves as a way for the people of Nusa Penida to preserve and protect the precious underwater world, which is considered a valuable heritage.

The history of Nyepi Segara also reflects the close relationship between Hindu religious beliefs and environmental sustainability. This tradition teaches the importance of balance between humans and nature, as well as the appreciation for the abundant marine life surrounding the island.

The Nyepi Segara tradition in Nusa Penida, Bali, holds profound meaning for the island's inhabitants. Apart from being an expression of reverence for the sea god Baruna, who is considered the protector of the island, Nyepi Segara is also a symbol of appreciation and awareness of the abundant marine ecosystem surrounding Nusa Penida. Through the cessation of sea activities for 24 hours, the local community demonstrates their commitment to preserving the natural resources teeming in the waters around the island. This also serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining a balance between humans and nature while imparting the values of sustainability that require genuine attention and action. Thus, Nyepi Segara is not just a religious celebration but also a reminder of our collective responsibility in safeguarding and protecting the environment we hold dear.

Nyepi Segara Ceremony (Photo Source: Pujangga Nagari Nusantara)

On Nyepi Segara, Nusa Penida residents gather at Hindu places of worship to pray and perform religious ceremonies. Additionally, they monitor the beaches to ensure that no one violates the swimming or fishing bans. While an atmosphere of calm and silence prevails over the island, this celebration is also adorned with vibrant and meaningful traditional ceremonies.

Security during Nyepi Segara is a top priority. Authorities and the community work together to ensure strict adherence to sea bans. Violations of these bans can result in serious penalties, including fines. Therefore, visitors who come to Nusa Penida during Nyepi Segara are also expected to respect this tradition.

Thus, Nyepi Segara is a unique and meaningful celebration on Nusa Penida, Bali. For 24 hours, the island reflects and celebrates the beauty of its seas by halting sea activities as a form of reverence for nature and the Hindu faith. This tradition also serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving the fragile marine ecosystem. Meanwhile, its rich history enriches the experience with deep meaning and wisdom.