Very early in the morning before the dews dry up, Balinese women are freshened up, ready to start the day with Canang Sari.

Canang Sari is the tiny 3-inch woven palm leaves package containing flowers, herbs, incense, and a bit of cookies or candies, that you’ll unavoidingly notice everywhere on the streets in Bali

It is so much more than mere street decoration. Canang Sari is daily devotional offering in Balinese belief system, which indeed has a beautiful purpose, to thank the Sang Hyang Widhi Wasa for the peace He has given to the world.

Four different coloured flowers are placed to symbolize each Hindu Gods: white as a symbol of Iswara, red for Brahma, yellow for Mahadewa, and blue/green for Vishnu.

Balinese women spend a lot of time and effort in preparing Canang Sari. First thing in the morning, before most tourists wander the streets, Balinese women will be out praying, and with a spirit of thankfulness, they’ll place these little packages at the front of their houses, stores, and shrines.

Accidentally stepping on these little packages is not harmful, but intentionally ruining one can be deeply offensive to the Balinese who witnessed it.

It’s surely a lovely part of their everyday ritual, knowing these ornate offerings provide such pretty gesture of sincerity and gratitude before entering a day.

May peace always be bestowed upon us,

Axioo Bali.