PM Modi Joins Historic Maha Kumbhabhishekam of Jakarta’s Murugan Temple, Celebrates Shared Cultural Legacy with Indonesia

On Sunday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually participated in the Maha Kumbhabhishekam ceremony of the Shri Sanathana Dharma Aalayam, popularly known as the Jakarta Murugan Temple, marking a significant moment for both India and Indonesia. This event celebrated the first-ever temple dedicated to Lord Murugan in Indonesia, further strengthening the cultural and spiritual ties between the two nations.

Speaking from afar, PM Modi expressed his heartfelt connection to the occasion, despite the distance. He called the ceremony “historic” and praised the Jakarta Murugan Temple as a beacon of spirituality, culture, and unity. The presence of Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto at the event made it even more special for the Indian Prime Minister, who highlighted the personal and deep bonds between the two leaders.

“My heart is as close to this moment as if I were present physically,” PM Modi remarked during his virtual address, emphasizing the warmth and connection shared between India and Indonesia. He also conveyed his warm wishes to the millions of devotees in both countries and around the world who were part of the sacred ceremony.

The Prime Minister underscored the historical and cultural links between the two nations, noting the deep-rooted connection spanning thousands of years. He pointed out that these ties go beyond geopolitics, grounded in shared faith, spirituality, and history, particularly through revered figures like Lord Murugan, Lord Sri Ram, and Lord Buddha. He also highlighted that for many Indians, a visit to Indonesia’s Prambanan Temple or reading works such as the Kakawin and Serat Ramayan fosters a spiritual bond similar to visiting sacred Indian sites like Kashi or Kedarnath.

Reflecting on the unity that exists between the two countries, PM Modi celebrated Indonesia’s cultural identity and philosophy of ‘Bhinneka Tunggal Ika,’ which means ‘Unity in Diversity.’ He expressed that this shared ethos of diversity and harmony is what allows people from different communities to live peacefully in both nations. He also emphasized that this sacred day reinforced the message of unity in diversity.

The Jakarta Murugan Temple, inaugurated with the laying of its foundation stone in February 2020, serves as more than just a place of worship. The temple represents a confluence of Indian, Javanese, and Balinese traditions, while also embracing the values of Pancasila, Indonesia’s state ideology. PM Modi praised the temple as a monumental milestone, adding that it’s a testament to the shared cultural values of India and Indonesia.

“Today, a new golden chapter is being added to our centuries-old heritage,” he said, recognizing the importance of the temple as not only a spiritual center but also a hub for cultural exchange and tourism. With idols of various deities installed within the temple, it showcases the diversity and richness of both countries’ traditions.

PM Modi further celebrated the growing people-to-people ties between the two nations, noting the collaborative efforts in preserving iconic cultural sites like the Prambanan and Borobudur Buddhist Temples. He expressed confidence that these shared cultural initiatives would continue to strengthen the bilateral relationship in the years to come.

The Maha Kumbhabhishekam ceremony itself is being conducted with the help of 72 Gurukals (priests) from India, ensuring the authenticity of the rituals. The temple’s establishment symbolizes the unity of Indonesia’s diverse communities and serves as a reminder of the enduring cultural and spiritual connections that link India and Indonesia.