Norwegian students have the opportunity to learn about Balinese Hindu culture at Goa Lawah Temple.

• By Admin
• Kamis, 8 Mei 2025

As part of the Social Anthropology course's extracurricular activities, 11 Norwegian students participated in a cultural excursion to Goa Lawah Temple in Pasingahan Village, Dawan District, Klungkung Regency, Bali. This activity was organized by the Udayana Cultural Anthropology Study Program. The objective of this activity is to facilitate direct exposure to the cultural milieu of Balinese Hindu society. The students expressed a high level of enthusiasm for acquiring knowledge about various aspects of local traditions and beliefs during the visit. This activity occurred on May 15, 2025.

This visit was characterized by two distinct yet interconnected components: active observation and active participation in religious activities by the students. The timing of the visit coincided with the Segara Gunung Ceremony at Goa Lawah Temple, a significant ritual that symbolizes the harmonious interplay between the marine and terrestrial realms, representing a fundamental tenet of natural equilibrium. This ceremony is typically scheduled to occur subsequent to the conclusion of the Ngaben ceremony. The students also participated in the ceremony with a serious and reflective demeanor.

Notably, the Norwegian students were attired in traditional Balinese garments during the ceremony. In accordance with local cultural norms, the subjects donned traditional attire, including kamen, udeng, and scarves, as a gesture of respect for the local culture. This activity has the potential to provide a significant impression on Norwegian students. The invitation extended to them is not merely to observe, but rather to engage with the traditions of the Balinese people in a manner that is both direct and experiential.

This activity has been meticulously planned in advance as part of the Social Anthropology program. The objective of this program is to cultivate students' comprehension of global cultural diversity. It is anticipated that through the active engagement of Norwegian students, they will develop an understanding of and sensitivity to the spiritual and social values that are integral to Balinese society. It is anticipated that this activity will facilitate a more profound comprehension of diverse cultural contexts while concurrently fostering enhanced relations between nations through the facilitation of knowledge exchange (drd).