Human Ash Clouds in Bali

A different type of ash cloud hung over Bali, and had nothing to do with volcanic activity. It involved the mass burning of human bones, conjuring a rich, communal celebration of spirituality. Souls were leaving an earthly paradise to attain a higher paradise. It had been seven years since the previous ngaben massal cremation on the little-developed island of Lembongan, a 30-minute fast ferry ride east of Sanur beach.