Life:
Story of Death

Death, life’s most enigmatic chapter, is rather taboo to talk about.

This series embarks on a journey through Indonesia’s death traditions, as we unveil the diverse and deeply-rooted death traditions that shape the human experience, transcending cultural boundaries through our character and location in each episode. A celebration to take the loved one to their last place.

Bali is an island pulsating with spirituality, and death is an integral part of its rhythm.

In Bali, the series delves into the radition of mass cremation, where families come together in a collective act of farewell, purifying their loved ones’ souls through the transformative power of fire. Through this grand communal event, individual families find a space to privately reckon with their loss, the cremation serving as a poignant reminder of both the impermanence and sanctity of life.

As we traverse its picturesque landscapes, we find families preparing for a unique ritual: the mass cremation. Unlike any funeral, this is a vibrant and communal event. Yet, beneath the spectacle, the episode intimately portrays how Balinese families grapple with the juxtaposition of releasing their loved ones to the cosmos and the personal void it creates. As the smoke rises, viewers witness the paradox of grief: a heart-wrenching pain mixed with the beauty of honoring a soul’s journey.

EP01 : BALI

The rugged landscapes of Sumba serve as a backdrop to the ancient megalith burials.

Here, families undertake the Herculean task of constructing massive stone tombs, a labor of love and respect, symbolizing the everlasting bond between the living and the departed. As these stones are etched into the earth, so too are memories etched into the hearts of the bereaved, creating a lasting testament to the legacies left behind.

Our journey continues to the rugged terrains of Sumba, a land steeped in tradition. The construction of megalith tombs dominates the scene, an arduous process that embodies the depth of familial bonds. But these massive stone structures aren’t just about death; they’re about legacy. Families share stories of the departed, and through these narratives, viewers discover that the weight of the megaliths is far lighter than the weight of loss. However, in erecting these monuments, the families find a path to healing, turning their grief into an eternal tribute.

EP02 : SUMBA

The Torajan landscapes and traditions encapsulate the series essence: in confronting death, we celebrate life.

Toraja, with its undulating terrains and unique cultural tapestry, presents a world where the boundary between the living and the dead is porous. Families participate in the Manene ritual, a touching reunion with their deceased loved ones, emphasizing the enduring connection they hold. The Rambu Solok, a grand feast, further showcases the communal aspect of remembrance, underscoring the idea that in death, as in life, we are never truly alone. Throughout the series, the overarching narrative focuses on the universal themes of love, loss, and legacy.

The highlands of Toraja welcome us with a promise of an unparalleled exploration into the realm of the afterlife. Death isn’t an end here, but a prolonged celebration of life. The Manene ritual offers a touching tableau of families revisiting their deceased, a tradition that emphasizes the enduring bond between worlds. Interspersed with these moments are preparations for Rambu Solok a grand feast that serves as both a remembrance and a testament to the cyclical nature of life and death.

EP03 : TORAJA

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