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April 11, 2004

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People tell us we won't find Bali's atmosphere elsewhere in Indondesia; the island encloses a sub-culture, rooted in the Hindu traditions brought across the ocean from India. The Balinese forged their Hinduism under volcanos and jungle, added a few island gods, let it simmer in sweltering tropical heat, and came out with a whole new recipe. An Indian poet came to Bali and said famously, "I see India everywhere but I don't recognize it."
After the ceremony let's go to the disco.
Hindu ceremonies on Bali splash color, wave flags, burn incense, and require patient kneeling.
Forget about a singing fat lady, you know it's over when the priest come out to sprinkle water and pass around offerings.
Everyone must wear a sarong and sash for good luck.