Lelunakan or Tengkuluk

Letting their hair fall loose is taboo for Balinese women – especially in public and in traditional ceremonies – even though a girl’s hair might be ever so beautiful. Loose hair is only seen when a Balinese woman is having an argument or when she is mourning or as a result of undertaking a particular oath. Or for certain other purposes for example for black magic. Other than this, a Balinese woman’s hair must be done up, or tied back. There are various ways of tying the hair according to the situation and purpose. In everyday life, to avoid her hair coming untied, a Balinese woman will wear a cloth head dress called tengkuluk. In public places such as the market, a towel is often used like this by the women traders. The types and shapes of these head dresses are very varied.
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