Bali \\\'quiet\\\' on Hindu day of silence

Tourist areas and economic centres usually bustling with activity on the Indonesian island of Bali were deserted on Monday, as its Hindu population observed a day of silence, it appears. Foreign tourists were required to stay in their hotel compounds, and the island's airport as well as sea ports were closed. Campaign rallies for the legislative election on 9 April were also put on hold. Nyepi marks the start of a new year according to the Balinese lunar calendar. Nobody works or travels, as it is traditionally a day of introspection and fasting. A special group of guards are usually the only people out on the streets - making sure everybody else stays at home, according to BBC.