Hinduism & Hierarchy in Bali (World Anthropology)

Behind the romantic image of Bali lies a complex social history. In the past, the Balinese have had to come to terms with Dutch colonialism, world war, incorporation into the Indonesian state, as well as a tourist boom. Reformers since the 1920s have challenged what they see as "feudal" Balinese caste hierarchy with egalitarian ideas, and the state has attempted to transform "traditional" Balinese religion into a more monotheistic and "authentic" form of Hinduism. Today we see, partly as a consequence, the appearance of many indigenous new religious movements as well as the importation of devotional forms of Hinduism, such as Sai Baba and Hare Krishna. In this intricate religious landscape, the various forms of Hinduism compete with each other in ways that can undermine, but also sustain, the social relations of hierarchy.

This book presents detailed ethnographic analyses and historically informed interpretations of status competition, caste conflict, ritual information, religious innovation, and the cultural politics of identity in today's Bali. Engaging and accessible in style, this volume makes a major contribution to the understanding of modern Balinese society and its future development.