Journey to the Wadah: A Path to the Afterlife

In "Journey to the Wadah: A Path to the Afterlife," four Balinese men continue their solemn procession, carrying the lembu toward the towering ngaben structure beneath a beautiful blue sky dotted with wisps of clouds. The clear, open sky adds a serene and uplifting backdrop to the ceremony, symbolizing peace and transcendence as the community prepares to honor the departed.

The ngaben tower, or wadah, serves as a sacred vessel in Balinese Hindu cremation rites, guiding the soul on its journey to the afterlife. The lembu—a symbol of strength and spiritual guidance—will soon unite with the ngaben tower, marking an essential step in the ritual. Captured from behind, this photograph reveals the dedication of the men carrying the lembu, each step bringing them closer to the final farewell.

This scene invites viewers to witness the reverence, tradition, and beauty woven into Balinese life. The blend of cultural heritage, spirituality, and the peaceful blue sky reflects the profound depth of the ceremony.