Purnama Kedasa - The 10th Full Moon

Wondered why there were so many closed stalls at the market this morning. Then someone explained. Found the following with the title above on this page date March 23 but heard it goes on for a month.

Location: major temples island-wide [photo of Besakish mother temple grounds]

This special full moon is considered highly significant amongst Balinese Hindus. Known as 'Purnama Kedasa' in the local tongue, the day coincides with many major temples celebrating in festive rituals, attended by thousands of devotees. The famous mother temple, Besakih, holds a special ceremony known as 'Betara Turun Kabeh' on this special day, inviting the gods and deified ancestors for their blessings. A 'melasti' or purification pilgrimage usually takes place on the preceding Sunday, with processions carrying helrilooms and temple objects to sanctified water sources.

It's called Holis in India. - thanks Gregory