Indonesia's President Prabowo Subianto will be the guest of honor at India's Republic Day parade. The cultural connection between Indonesia and India spans over millennia, where various stories of their shared heritage circulate. Despite being the largest Muslim-majority nation today, Indonesia's cultural fabric still weaves in Hindu traditions. Presently, the Hindu population in Indonesia is less than 2%. However, the country was once ruled by Hindu and Buddhist kings for centuries. Today, we explore aspects of Indonesian customs that reflect Hindu influences.
The influence of Hindu culture and beliefs in Indonesia deeply infiltrates society, art, and religious customs. Notably, there is a profound devotion to Lord Ganesha, worshipped for intelligence, prosperity, and as the remover of obstacles.
The Beginning of Ganesha Worship and Its Religious Impact
The impact of Hinduism in Indonesia dates back to ancient times, especially on the island of Bali, where its influence is profound. Worship of Lord Ganesha is a significant religious event here. Devotion to Lord Ganesha transcends the Hindu community, extending to Muslim and Christian communities as well. This highlights how Ganesha worship has evolved into a cultural symbol beyond a mere tradition.
Ganesha Idols in Shops and Homes
Apart from Bali, islands like Java and Sumatra also partake in Ganesha worship. Particularly in commercial and social circles, he is venerated as a symbol of prosperity and success. Ganesha idols adorn homes, shops, and offices, where people offer their prayers for blessings and fortune.
Source: aajtak
Cultural Significance of Ganesha Imagery
In Indonesia, Ganesha's image holds substantial religious and cultural essence. The crafting of Ganesha idols is an integral part of Indonesian art and craftsmanship. Bali's traditional art frequently features Ganesha statues, seen prominently in numerous local festivals, such as Bali's grand celebration of 'Ganesha Chaturthi'.
Traders' Faith in Lord Ganesha
One intriguing aspect of Ganesha worship in Indonesia is the emphasis on his role as a 'remover of obstacles' and 'deity of prosperity'. Traders regard worshiping Lord Ganesha as vital, believing that he eliminates barriers in their enterprises and brings economic prosperity.
Source: aajtak
Ganesha's Image on Currency
Particularly noteworthy is Lord Ganesha's mentioning on Indonesian currency. In the 1950s, President Sukarno issued a special edition of banknotes featuring Ganesha. In 1998, another currency was introduced with Ganesha's image to promote education, as he is the esteemed deity of wisdom. Although this currency was phased out post-2008, it marked Ganesha's indelible influence.
The Universal Appeal of Ganesha Worship
In Indonesia, even Muslims and Christians participate in Ganesha worship, particularly among trader communities. Mainly in Bali, it is celebrated as a traditional religious festival where locals install and worship Ganesha idols in their homes and places of work.
Source: aajtak
Temples Revering Ganesha
Signs of Ganesha worship are evident in Indonesia, especially in Bali where numerous temples honor him, including the renowned Uluwatu and Sangeh Temples. Moreover, Java's famed Prambanan Temple is known for its Ganesha statue, reflecting Hindu cultural influence.
