TWO fighters enter the arena. They are bare-chested with rattan canes gripped tightly in the fists of their right hands. Their left hands hold shields. They dance around to the lively accompaniment of the gamelan, while waiting for a command from the referee. A moment later they are really hitting each other until blood flows. The wounds are seen as offerings to the gods so that they will send rain and wash away the long dry season.

The ritual G