Balinese culture adapts as crematoriums gain popularity over traditional Ngaben ceremonies

Research by the National Research and Innovation Agency BRIN indicates a growing trend among Balinese people, especially the younger generation, to use modern crematoriums instead of traditional Ngaben funeral processions. I Made Budiasa, a researcher at BRIN's Research Center for Manuscripts, Literature, and Oral Traditions PRMLTL, explained that while a conventional Ngaben ceremony can cost between Rp. 80 million and Rp. 100 million, a mechanized crematorium allows the ritual to be performed for approximately Rp. 32 million, fully complying with religious requirements. This shift is attributed to the need for more time- and cost-efficient ways to fulfill religious obligations without compromising other essential needs, such as children's education. Urbanization also plays a role, as many Balinese in urban areas face time constraints due to work demands and cannot fully participate in the multi-day ngayah communal service traditions. Prof. Melani Budianta, a member of the Indonesian Academy of Sciences AIPI and Professor Emeritus at the Faculty of Humanities, Universitas Indonesia FIB UI, noted that this adaptation demonstrates the community's ability to embrace technological advancements while preserving cultural and spiritual values, potentially offering a more environmentally friendly approach. The change reflects a "religious marketplace" where practices adapt to modern societal needs and economic conditions.