Perang Pandan, Karangasem Bali

One of the most enduring traditions in Bali that still exists today is Perang Pandan (Pandan War), also known as mekare-kare, originating from Tenganan Village in Karangasem. This tradition pays homage to God Indra, known as the God of War, who successfully defeated Maya Dewana—a powerful and arbitrary king descended from giants that prohibited the people from believing in God. This event is also a defining factor in the local beliefs of Tenganan Village, where they do not recognize castes and believe that God Indra is the supreme deity. In honor of God Indra, they regularly engage in the Pandan War every fifth month of the Tenganan Calendar.