Ketut Jaya: The Master Healer from Ubud, Bali
This is the first time I am writing about an individual. I typically compose stories, poems, and political essays, but this time I want to focus on one remarkable man: Ketut Jaya.
In recent years—specifically, over the last two—I have shifted my holiday travels from Thailand to Bali. I have visited the island five times in that span. Fortunately, I have a personal driver and guide named Komang Urip, which allows me to explore Bali freely, visiting the places I desire.
During my visit in November 2018, a fellow traveler introduced me to Balinese healing methods and the island's master healers. Unlike conventional practitioners, Balinese healers are not trained in institutions; instead, they follow in the footsteps of their fathers and ancestors, who were traditional healers. In earlier days, many Balinese people sought treatment from these healers rather than hospitals—even for serious illnesses like cancer.
On that trip, I managed to visit the home of a well-known healer in Ubud, named Cokorda Rai. He was prominent in his field but, being over 85, he was quite elderly. When I arrived, a few others were already waiting for their turn, and I ended up waiting for an hour. When my turn finally came, he simply touched my hands and forehead and told me, "You do not have any illness; you can go." I was disappointed but left a donation of 350,000 IDR (about INR 1,750) before departing.
Afterwards, I delved into research on Balinese healers online and came across names like Pakman and Ketut Liyer. Eventually, I discovered Ketut Jaya, who would later become my healer, guru, and good friend.
At the time, I was suffering from severe problems with my legs, including unbearable thigh pain alongside intense knee pain. Many nights were sleepless due to the discomfort. I tried modern medicine and consulted orthopedic-neuro doctors, but with no improvement. I also explored Ayurvedic treatments, undergoing Kadi Vasthi and other Uzhichil therapies, consuming numerous Kashayams and Gulikas—yet still no relief. I attended ten days of physiotherapy (including Matrix therapy), but the pain persisted. One orthopedic doctor suggested joining a gym and doing mild exercises, which provided some relief, but it was not a complete solution.
Finally, I decided to return to Bali as soon as possible to see Ketut Jaya. I booked a flight with Malaysia Airways, as it was the most affordable option. My favorite airline, Thai Airways, was charging over twice as much.
Upon arriving at Denpasar Airport, Komang drove me to Ketut's residence, located about 4-5 kilometers from Ubud. Ketut's home resembles a herbal garden, complete with a pet pig that seems to think Ketut is its father.
The surroundings were filled with roosters, birds, and squirrels. Ketut was waiting for me with a warm smile. He offered me a glass of Jamu, a traditional Balinese drink, and inquired how he could assist me. I briefly explained my health issues, and he invited me to follow him to his treatment room located behind the house. Stepping in felt like entering a scene from a Harry Potter movie, and I felt a bit apprehensive, but Ketut's wide smile instilled confidence and courage in me. The room was adorned with crystals, bells, bowls, bottles of oil, herbs, unguents, statues, carvings, strips of cockerel tail feathers, and sticks of incense.
First, Ketut asked me to seek permission from my body to ensure it was ready for healing. At that moment, I sensed that I was in for a challenging experience. I complied, and the treatment commenced. Ketut sprinkled oil on my legs and back, providing a massage that was enjoyable and soothing. When he asked how I felt, I replied, "Fine, thank you."
Then came the real treatment. My feet were pinched with a tool I couldn't see—a knife, spanner, or something similar. He manipulated each of my toes, executing movements I had never experienced before. I can confidently say that the hour I spent under his care was the most painful hour of my life. I had never endured such intense pain before.
After that, Ketut brought out a wheel that produced a resonating sound and placed it near my ears. He then arranged stones on my forehead, neck, chest, and stomach, performing a ritual with bells and flowers. Next, he asked me to call my name three times, prompting my soul to return to my body. The sensation was indescribable; it felt as though I were floating in the air before collapsing back onto the massage table.
Ketut delivered a brief talk about karma, emphasizing that I alone could address my karmic challenges. He remarked that the opportunity to inhabit this planet was a chance for me to make my existence meaningful.
Following the treatment, he led me to a small sauna-like room filled with tubes emanating steam. I sat there with Ketut for about 20 minutes, after which we emerged from the heat.
In total, the session lasted over two hours. Before I left, Ketut offered me a small quantity (20 ml) of locally made arak, stating it was for internal healing.
Curious, I asked him, "Ketut, do I have any serious ailments?" He replied, "We won't label things like that. My job is to remove any blocks." I felt a wave of relief wash over me, realizing he had helped remove both physical and mental barriers.
Ketut employed Balinese reflexology, Reiki, and his own unique methodology of deep tissue massage.
Dear friends, when I left his presence, I felt like a new person. My pain significantly diminished, and by the time I departed Bali (after a four-day visit), I was entirely free of discomfort. Whether you choose to believe it or not, this has been my experience. Ketut did not suggest I return, but I intend to visit again—if only to hear his sage advice or enjoy another glass of Jamu.
If you plan to visit Bali, you can reach Ketut at +62 878 624 919 27 or via email at ketutjaya1967@gmail.com.
Ketut is truly an amazing personality—a humanist, healer, guru, and friend, embodying many admirable qualities.
