Baru di Bali

Today in Bali, where many commercial buildings are constructed following traditional architectural principals, many items such as the traditional umbrellas (known as tedung) are used to add a character to represent a style considered truly Balinese. However, not many know that the different colors of the umbrellas actually represent the different manifestations of the gods. Therefore these umbrellas are typically used for auspicious occasions to decorate the temple compounds. The pure shades of yellow and white, which are largely found within areas of temples, are to symbolize the gods Vishnu and Shiva. The check-patterned (black and white) is dedicated to penungkaran or the guardian of an area/ neighborhood. New umbrellas will regularly be purchased for community temples using communal funds. Prior to being erected the umbrella must be sprinkled with holy water as an act of purification. The village areas of Klungkung and Mengwi are known throughout Bali for the production of these ceremonial umbrellas.

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