Barong, the symbol of virtue and good in Balinese mythology.
(Note: All pictures may be enlarged by clicking on them once or twice. These images are scanned from slides taken in 1987)
On one of the first days we were in Bali, our group was taken to an outdoor theater to see a traditional Balinese dance drama that depicted the struggle between Barong and Rangda. The dance represents the eternal battle between good and evil.
Rangda, the symbol of evil.
Barong is a symbol of health and good fortune, while Rangda is a child-eating witch who leads an army of evil witches against the forces of good — Barong.
Queen Dewi Kunti and her stepson, who will be sacrificed to placate the anger of Rangda.
In the version of the story we saw, the stepson of the queen was to be sacrificed to placate the anger of Rangda.
Unti, a minister of Dewi Kunti
The king sent his prime minister to deal with Rangda, although he was unsuccessful. His failure set the stage for the battle between Barong and Rangda.
The dance/drama was definitely interesting and provided a glimpse into traditional Balinese culture.
To see larger versions of these pictures, as well as others from the performance, click HERE.
Senior Moments 
June 11, 2019 at 6:54 am |
What an adventure!
June 11, 2019 at 9:49 am |
What a fun experience! Thank you for sharing this with us
June 11, 2019 at 10:55 am |
Goodness, what a storyline!! You got really good pictures of this ceremony.
June 11, 2019 at 11:45 am |
Bali Hai is calling!!!!!!! I’ll take all of the Barong I can get right now…. Keep the Rangda away….
Love,
Wifey
June 11, 2019 at 1:03 pm |
Very interesting.
June 12, 2019 at 8:05 am |
Wow, that is interesting and kind of scary too! Great photos and what a trip it must have been!
June 18, 2019 at 12:29 am |
Hello George.
It was a great joy to see Your wow-photos. Thank You. Have a good day!
June 19, 2019 at 9:50 am |
That sounds an interesting play and great shots on the scenes!
June 25, 2019 at 3:43 am |
Lovely colourful photos which have given you wonderful memories.
July 31, 2019 at 8:09 pm |
I loved this post! Reading your blog is an inspiration to
myself and the Eglevsky Ballet. Keep creating great content, we continue
to share to our followers and students who love it as well!
August 12, 2019 at 7:54 pm |
Great pictures of this drama. I’m loving your blog. Just wish you had a follow button.
September 1, 2020 at 12:24 am |
Hello George.
We have never been to Bali! This means that it was a great joy to admire your beautiful photos. Then you.
Have a nice day!