Bali Island province off the e tip of Java, between the Bali Sea and the Indian Ocean, Indonesia. The main town is Denpasar. Under Javanese control from the 10th century, Bali was a Dutch possession from 1908 to 1949, apart from Japanese occupation during World War II. It is the centre of Majaphit Hinduism. Its scenic beauty and native culture make it a popular tourist resort. The island is fertile and densely populated. Industries: rice, sweet potatoes, cassava, copra, meat processing. Area: 5561sq km (2147sq mi). Pop. (2001) 3,124,674.

Bali. An offering, in Hinduism and Buddhism, of grain or rice to gods and spirits, in particular, part of the daily offering of the gṛhastha (householder) which ensures that at death he will attain Brahman.

Bali. In Hindu mythology, one of the leaders of the daityas (demons) and grandson of Prahlāda. According to one legend he was offered the choice of entering heaven with one hundred fools, or hell with one wise person. He chose the latter, because a hundred fools will turn heaven into hell, but one wise person will turn hell into heaven.