Editorial photo #13823696 Human Interest

Bali's Sacred Pandanus Leaf Fights Ritual

Balinese men armed with thorny pandanus leaves and rattan shields prepare during the Mekare-kare ritual, also known as pandanus fights, in Tenganan Village, Karangasem, Bali, Indonesia, on June 10, 2026. According to local beliefs, the ritual is performed as a tribute to the God Indra, the god of war. Through the duels, participants make sacrifices for the gods to balance the human body with the universe. (Photo by Johanes P. Christo/NurPhoto)