Tumpek Wayang

Tumpek Wayang Day is considered unlucky, just like Friday the 13th in Western cultures, for people born directly on this day even more so. Of all the Tumpek ceremonies, Wayang is the most mystical and obscure.

Locals believe an ancient story that on this day, Shiva permitted a demon to devour his newborn child, which he fathered in an inappropriate sexual relationship with the goddess Uma, which led to the birth of the terrifying monster Dewa Kala. Therefore, people born directly on Tumpek Wayang must undergo the Sapuh Leger ceremony, which will drive away the demons and protect them. The ceremony is assisted by a local puppeteer who performs a special puppet show. Believers try to be less visible today because of the ruling demons.

However, the Balinese also believe that at the same time, the god Ishvara will appear on the Earth, save humanity from evil, and enlighten them. The enlightenment is believed to come in the form of artists who can make arts and crafts. At Tumpek Wayang, various masks, puppets, and other art forms are spiritually purified through religious ceremonies. Therefore, this day is also known to celebrate art in all forms.

Tumpek Wayang is celebrated once every 210 days (1 year according to the Balinese calendar Pawukon).