Bali- Things to do
Travel has always excited me as I get to learn different cultures and traditions. I was surprised at the closeness of traditions between Kerala (India) and Bali. In the Balinese architecture the entrance gate is similar to the 'Padipura vathil' (Entrance gate) of traditional Kerala houses (tharavadu). Each family has a family Deity Temple within the compound of their houses so much like the 'Paradevatta' (Family Deity) in Kerala tradition. I had a chance to witness the ceremonial procession on 'Kunningan Festival' which is similar to the temple festivals in Kerala. The difference is that Balinese lion is taken on procession. Traditionally dressed men holding bright yellow temple umbrellas and women carrying a bowl of fruits and other offerings on their head lead the procession. Ladies waited with offerings of fruits in front of their houses when the procession passed by their