KBRN, Jakarta: In an effort to address contemporary environmental challenges through traditional practices, cultural observers in Bali urged the public to strengthen the Nangluk Merana ritual on Sunday, December 21, 2025.

Speaking for Griya Wanasari Sanur, Ida Pedanda Gede Wayahan Wanasari detailed that the ritual is a sophisticated form of ecological awareness, designed to mend the relationship between people and the ecosystem by acknowledging that physical disasters are often symptoms of spiritual and natural imbalances.

"Nangluk Merana is an effort to realign the energy of bhuta kala so that it does not become a source of disturbance. This ritual teaches that nature is not to be conquered, but to be realized and respected," he stated, as quoted by Antara.

He emphasized that the Bhuta Yadnya ceremony on the coast serves as a spiritual communication between humans and nature, particularly the sea, which is believed to be the source of amerta or life and purity.

The Chairman of the Puri Kauhan Ubud Foundation, Anak Agung Gde Ari Dwipayana, asserted that this discussion is a primary step toward building a collective consciousness to view Bali as a single, unified ecosystem. He expressed belief that coastal communities hold a strategic position that integrates ritual, ecological, cultural, and economic aspects.

"Bali is Bali Dwipa. It cannot be cut into pieces. The upstream, middle, and the coast and sea are one unity. Protecting the mountains is just as important as protecting the sea," Gde remarked.

Meanwhile, Jro Bendesa Adat I Wayan Wisma Lebih described the Nangluk Merana practices passed down through generations in the Lebih Traditional Village, specifically during Tilem Kanem.

He further noted that the ritual is performed at strategic coastal points to safeguard the territory spiritually through the direct involvement and solidarity of the indigenous community. "The coast is the fortress of Bali island. Therefore, traditional villages have the responsibility to maintain its sanctity and balance through rituals, awig-awig, and the involvement of the krama," he said.

From an academic perspective, Pande Wayan Renawati from I Gusti Bagus Sugriwa State Hindu University (UHN) of Denpasar, Bali, highlighted the relevance of the Nangluk Merana ritual in the context of contemporary issues like climate change and coastal degradation. She added that the shift in professions among fishermen and farmers presents a challenge that should be addressed by exploring cultural-based economic potential without destroying the ecosystem.

"This ritual is local ecological knowledge. Within it, there is awareness of natural cycles, environmental ethics, and human self-control. This is highly relevant to issues like abrasion, marine debris, and changes in the livelihoods of coastal communities," Pande Wayan Renawati concluded. ***