Banjar Padangtegal Mekarsari

Struktur organisasi Banjar Mekarsari:

• Kelian Banjar Adat dan Dinas : I Dewa Gede Putra Utama.

• Wakil : I Wayan Suwistra

• Bendahara:  I Wayan Purnata

• Sekretaris : I Ketut Gede Khociana

Banjar Padangtegal Mekarsari is a sub-village (banjar) located in the Padangtegal Village area in Ubud, Bali. Banjar Padangtegal Mekarsari is one of the smaller administrative and social divisions within the larger Padangtegal village, which itself is known for being the home of the famous Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary (Ubud Monkey Forest). This banjar, like other banjars in Bali, serves as a local community unit responsible for various aspects of social, religious, and cultural life in the area.

Overview of Banjar Padangtegal Mekarsari

• Location: Banjar Padangtegal Mekarsari is located in the village of Padangtegal, which is part of the Ubud District in Gianyar Regency, Bali. It is in close proximity to the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, one of the major tourist attractions in Bali.

• Meaning of "Mekarsari": The name "Mekarsari" comes from Balinese, where "Mekar" means "to blossom" or "to flower," and "Sari" refers to the essence or core. In this context, "Mekarsari" can be interpreted as the "blossoming essence" of the community, reflecting growth, cultural richness, and harmony. This name is fitting for a community that strives to preserve its cultural and religious practices while integrating modern influences.

Cultural and Religious Significance

Banjar Padangtegal Mekarsari, like all other banjars in Bali, has an essential role in the social and religious life of the local community. In Bali, each banjar acts as a self-governing unit that organizes important religious ceremonies, cultural festivals, and community activities. The people of Banjar Padangtegal Mekarsari adhere to Balinese Hinduism and follow the traditional systems of governance and cultural practices.

• Religious Ceremonies: The banjar plays a crucial role in organizing religious ceremonies, temple festivals, and rituals, particularly those that are celebrated in the local temples or family shrines. Banjar members come together to prepare offerings, decorate temples, and carry out rituals, which often include odalan (temple anniversaries), ngaben (cremation ceremonies), and other significant events.

• Cultural Events: The banjar also helps organize traditional arts, music, and dance performances. As Ubud is known for its rich artistic heritage, Banjar Padangtegal Mekarsari likely participates in showcasing local arts such as Gamelan music, Balinese dance, and other forms of traditional performance.

Role of the Banjar in Local Administration

The banjar system in Bali serves not only as a social unit but also plays an important role in the local governance and administration. In Bali’s unique traditional system, the banjar is responsible for various aspects of local life, from community welfare to religious and cultural functions.

• Social Functions: Banjar members support each other in times of need, whether during religious ceremonies, family celebrations, or crises like illness or death. The community unit fosters a sense of cooperation and mutual responsibility.

• Local Governance: Banjar Padangtegal Mekarsari is part of the broader Padangtegal Village structure, which falls under the jurisdiction of Ubud District in the Gianyar Regency. The local banjar is generally led by a Banjar Kepala (head), who is responsible for overseeing the community’s activities, organizing ceremonies, and liaising with other banjars and government officials.

Connection to the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

Although Banjar Padangtegal Mekarsari is a distinct part of Padangtegal Village, it is closely associated with the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary due to its proximity. The Sanctuary is one of Bali's most popular tourist destinations, and its importance in the region extends beyond just its role as a tourist site. The temple complex and surrounding forest have spiritual significance, and as part of the broader Padangtegal community, the residents of Banjar Padangtegal Mekarsari are involved in preserving both the cultural and ecological aspects of the area.

The monkeys that inhabit the forest, the temple rituals, and the surrounding natural beauty are all important elements of the local community's identity, and the residents of Banjar Padangtegal Mekarsari likely take part in the conservation efforts and the religious significance tied to the forest.

Tourism and Modern Influence

Due to its location in Ubud, a region that has become a major international tourist destination, Banjar Padangtegal Mekarsari is influenced by tourism. Many local businesses, such as hotels, restaurants, and art galleries, thrive because of the influx of tourists visiting the Sacred Monkey Forest and other Ubud attractions. However, the community works to maintain a balance between modern tourism and the preservation of their traditional culture and religious practices.

• Local Economy: The local economy of Banjar Padangtegal Mekarsari benefits from the tourism that flows through Ubud and its surrounding areas. Many villagers may be involved in businesses related to tourism, such as hospitality, handicrafts, or guiding services.

• Cultural Preservation: While tourism brings economic benefits, there is a strong focus on maintaining traditional practices and ensuring that the cultural heritage is passed down to future generations. The community works to preserve local arts, crafts, and religious traditions in the face of modernization.

Natural Beauty and Environment

Banjar Padangtegal Mekarsari is located in a lush, green area surrounded by rice terraces, forests, and the tranquil natural environment of Ubud. This area is known for its sacred and pristine natural beauty, which plays an important role in Balinese Hinduism. The natural surroundings are seen as both a physical and spiritual resource, with many of the community’s religious practices honoring the land and its sacred aspects.

• Conservation and Sustainability: Given its proximity to the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, there is a significant focus on conservation efforts in Banjar Padangtegal Mekarsari. Efforts to protect local wildlife, forests, and sustainable agricultural practices are central to maintaining the balance between tourism and nature conservation.

Conclusion

Banjar Padangtegal Mekarsari is an integral part of the cultural and religious life of Padangtegal Village in Ubud, Bali. It is a community deeply rooted in Balinese Hinduism, with a rich tradition of religious rituals, cultural performances, and social responsibility. Despite the influence of modern tourism, the people of Banjar Padangtegal Mekarsari continue to honor their traditions and play an active role in preserving both their cultural heritage and the natural environment of Ubud. The sacred connection to the Monkey Forest Sanctuary, the thriving artistic atmosphere of Ubud, and the village’s commitment to sustainability all contribute to the unique identity of Banjar Padangtegal Mekarsari.