If you’ve just arrived in Bali and find yourself stepping over small, colourful offerings on the sidewalks, don’t panic. You’re not suddenly part of an elaborate scavenger hunt, nor are you trampling on someone’s art project.
These beautiful little arrangements are called Canang Sari, and they are a fundamental part of Balinese Hindu culture, embodying daily gratitude, balance, and devotion.
What is Canang Sari?
To put it simply, Canang Sari (pronounced Cha-nang Sah-ree) is a daily offering made by Balinese Hindus as a gesture of thanks to the Gods. The offering consists of a small woven palm leaf tray filled with an arrangement of colorful flowers, topped with a piece of some snacks, incense, and a coin.
These offerings are placed in temples, at entrances to homes and businesses, on sidewalks, and even on car dashboards (you might see them inside of our drivers’ cars) – essentially, anywhere that requires a spiritual acknowledgement.
The word Canang is a combination of “Ca” (pronounced cha) which means beautiful, and “Nang,” which means purpose or goal. Sari translates to essence.
Together, Canang Sari represents a symbolic act of gratitude and devotion. But beyond just a pretty little roadside decor, there is deep meaning behind each element of the offering.
The Elements of Canang Sari
The basket: This is made from coconut or banana leaves, folded and pinned into a small, square-shaped base. The act of crafting these is a meditative practice, and many Balinese woman make dozens every day as part of their routine.
The flowers: The colour and placement of the flowers are not random. Each flower is meticulously positioned to represent a Hindu deity.
- Red (South): for Brahma
- White (East): for Iswara
- Yellow (West): for Mahadeva or Shiva
- Blue / Purple (North): for Vishnu
Betel leaf: In the heart of the offering is the Poroson, a mix of betel leaf, lime, and areca nut.
Pandan leaves: Thinly shredded pandan leaves (sometimes coconut leaves) are placed on top of the flowers. This enhances the beauty and the vibrance of the offering.
Additional Offerings:
- Cooked rice – for prosperity and sustenance
- Incense stick (Dupa) – acts a bridge to the spiritual realm, carrying prayers to the gods.
- Coins or small cash – included as a symbolic gesture of generosity
- Sweets or a cigarettes – added as a personal tough, especially when making offerings to ancestors.
Canang Sari Workshop
The Canang Sari Workshop is a fantastic way to get immersed with Balinese Hindu culture while learning how to create these intricate offerings. It’s truly an authentic experience.
The workshop is guided by a Balinese priestess in her local family compound in Ubud. Aside from how to make Canang Sari, you will learn more about what they mean, the morning rituals, and how the Puja (prayer) is done.
Why is Canang Sari Everywhere?
The thing about this island is, spirituality isn’t confined to just Bali temples; it spills onto the streets, businesses, beaches, and even motorcycles. The philosophy behind these offerings is that all spaces, from a humble roadside warung to a five-star resort, deserve spiritual balance and protection.
Thus, every morning, Balinese women prepare and place offerings at key locations – entrances, shrines, crossroads, vehicles, and even the stoves.
Fun fact: It’s quite common to see offerings placed at seemingly random spots like Bali ATMs. Yes, even your cash withdrawal might need a bit of divine intervention – you never know when you need it!
Tourist Etiquette with Canang Sari
Canang Sari: A Brief History
Balinese Hinduism, which is deeply influenced by Indian Hindu traditions, dates back thousands of years. The practice of making Canang Sari and offering it to the gods has its roots in these traditions, where balance between humans, nature, and the divine (Tri Hita Karana) is most important.
The exact origins of Canang Sari are difficult to pinpoint, but the practice evolved as an accessible and simple form of expressing devotion. When grand temple ceremonies are held for major religious events, Canang Sari is a more intimate, everyday way to maintain a connection with the spiritual world.
The concept stems from the Hindu philosophies of Karma and Dharma – by making daily offerings, one gathers good karma and fulfills their duty in maintaining cosmic balance. Additionally, it serves as a reminder of self-discipline, mindfulness, and the continuous effort to live in according with God’s will.
Here are some useful resources for your Bali trip:
Neil
I’ve been in Bali for so long I’ve grown roots (literally and metaphorically). For the past 10 years, I’ve experienced Bali from every angle. I’ve explored the temples, I’ve tried all the food, and I’m proudly fluent in the Indonesian language. I hope our website helps you get an authentic experience for your holiday in Bali, whether you’re here to enjoy the finer things in life, or to experience Bali’s rich culture.
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