Nyepi is a Balinese ”Day of Silence” that is commemorated every  Isaawarsa (Saka new year) according to the Balinese calendar.

The day of Nyepi is a day of silence, fasting, and meditation.  Observed from 6 a.m. until 6 a.m. the next morning, Nyepi is a day reserved for self reflection and as such, anything that might interfere with that purpose is restricted. The main restrictions are: no lighting fires (and lights must be kept low); no working; no entertainment or pleasure; no traveling; and for some, no talking or eating at all.

Bali a beautiful Indonesian island located between Java island to the west and Lombok island to the east that usually buzzing will be quiet – there are nobody doing their normal daily activities. There is usually Pecalangs (traditional Balinese security man) who controls and checks for street security.  Pecalang wear a black uniform and a Udeng or Destar (a Balinese traditional “hat” that is usually used in ceremony). The Pecalangs main task is not only to control the security of the street but also to stop any activities that disturb Nyepi.

Happy Nyepi 23 March 2012 to all who celebrate.

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Reference:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nyepi

http://www.indo.com/culture/nyepi.html