The term “odalan” is derived from the word “odal,” which means ancestral temple or family shrine. The ceremony typically takes place at temples and involves various rituals, prayers, offerings, music, dance, and feasting. The roots of odalan can be traced back to ancient Balinese Hindu traditions, reflecting the island’s rich heritage and spiritual beliefs. The ceremony serves as a symbol of unity, community spirit, and reverence for the divine. One of the most remarkable aspects of odalan is the active involvement of the entire community. People from all walks of life come together to contribute their time, resources, and skills to make the ceremony a success. This collective effort fosters a sense of belonging and solidarity among the Balinese people, reinforcing their shared cultural identity and religious values.
At Amora Ubud, we celebrate odalan every 6 months. The first odalan in 2024 is scheduled for January 24th. We prepare the offerings the day before, which are then carried out collectively by the Amora staff. On the odalan day, we receive assistance from the local residents to ensure the smooth continuation of the odalan ceremony.
