look news india
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is starting his six-day foreign tour from July 6, in the first phase of which he will reach Indonesia. This is PM Modi’s first official bilateral visit after the relationship between India and Indonesia was given the status of ‘Comprehensive Strategic Partnership’ in 2018. Apart from bilateral talks with the new Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto in Jakarta and addressing the Indian community, the highlight of the entire tour is the historic Prambanan Temple Complex in Yogyakarta.
Let us know about the history of this grand temple of the ninth century, its unique architecture and its cultural importance in the relations between the two countries.
1. Historical and cultural importance of Prambanan Temple
Prambanan Temple is not just a stone building, but it is a living testimony of the centuries-old deep cultural and historical ties between India and Indonesia. Built in the ninth century, this complex is the largest and grandest Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva in all of South-East Asia. Considering its historical importance and unique structure, UNESCO has declared it a World Heritage Site. The inauguration of India-supported restoration works during this visit of PM Modi will also give a new strength to the shared history of the two countries.
2. An unmatched example of architecture dedicated to the Trinity
The biggest feature of this temple is its triangular religious belief and architecture. At the center of the main complex are the three largest temples, dedicated to the Hindu trinity—Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu and Lord Brahma.
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Grandeur of Shiva Temple: The highest and huge center point among these is the temple of Lord Shiva, whose height is about 47 meters. A very grand idol of Mahadev is installed in its sanctum sanctorum.
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Temples of vehicles: Right in front of the Trimurti, three separate temples have also been built for their vehicles i.e. Nandi (Shiva), Garuda (Vishnu) and Hans (Brahma). The skyscrapers of this entire complex attract people from a distance.
3. The story of Ramayana engraved on the walls of the temple
The carvings on the walls of Prambanan are a wonderful example of ancient craftsmanship. The entire stories of Ramayana and Bhagwat Purana have been depicted through stone carvings on the outer and inner walls of the temple. Looking at the Ramayana Gallery here, it becomes clear how deep the eternal values are ingrained in the culture of Indonesia despite being thousands of kilometers away from India. Apart from this, the traditional ‘Ramayan Ballet’ performed here every evening is famous all over the world.
4. Unique confluence of diplomacy and culture
This visit shows that under its ‘Act East Policy’, India is not only building trade, defense or maritime security relations with South-East Asia, but is also nourishing its cultural roots. Indonesia is a Muslim majority country, but it has preserved its ancient Hindu heritage with great respect and pride. PM Modi’s visit here will deepen the people-to-people ties between the people of the two countries.
