Did you know the offerings you see everywhere are part of the daily Balinese Hindu rituals, are all hand made every day in their 1000’s ? Usually by the Ibu ( mothers). They can be purchased for around 10 000 Rupiah ready made, however if made from scratch a lot cheaper. We were curious to learn what they meant and the significance of all of the parts which make these beautiful offerings. While at the Denpasar markets grabbing some fruit we brought all the items needed and were taught how to make them. What I have learnt is that there are various interpretations of the meaning behind them and perhaps a little lost in translation. One theory is that they are a “Thank you symbol” for peace given to the world. The word “Canang” is originally from the Kawi Language and means “beautiful purpose”. Canang Sari has some major components which include symbolising the three major Gods in Hinduism. Shiva , Vishnu and Brahma. Canang sari are set in a tray made from palm leaf as a symbol of Ardha Candra. They are overlaid by flowers placed in a specific direction. Each direction symbolizes a Hindu God:
White-colored flowers lay in the east as a symbol of Iswara
Red-colored flowers placed in the south as a symbol of Brahma
Yellow-colored flowers placed in the west as a symbol of Mahadeva
Blue or green colored flowers put in the north as a symbol of Vishnu
A canang sari is completed by placing amount money on the top , this is said to make up the essence (the “sari”) of the offering. Incense is lit and holy water sprinkled during the prayer process.107114120143146167