Hindu culture of Indonesia

Hinduism in Indonesia 

Hinduism came to Indonesia in the 1st-century through Indian traders, sailors, scholars and priests. A syncretic fusion of pre-existing Javanese folk religion, culture and Hindu ideas, that from the 6th-century also synthesized Buddhist ideas as well, evolved as the Indonesian version of Hinduism.

The Shaivite sect of Hinduism started to develop in Java in the fifth century CE. Hinduism had a decisive influence on the ideology of the one-man rule of the Raja, and was the dominant religion in Indonesia before the arrival of Islam.

In Indonesia (especially Java), the Ramayana (and also Mahabharata) form the base for the famous shadow or leather puppet show known as the Wajang Kulit that starts after the harvest season and continues until the rains start.

Ramayana in Indonesia

It is historically believed that the two Great Indian Epics were carried to Indonesia by various traders, warriors, craftsmen, priests, and poets. Various Indonesian and Javanese inscriptions (Sanskrit) dating from 8th to 10th century CE frequently mention the terms Raghav, Bharat, Lanka, Ravan, Sita, Ram, Vali, Ramayan, and Lakshman.

While the earliest known written copy of Ramkatha in Indonesia known as the Ramayan Kakawain was written by Yogiswar (10th century), later various other versions were written too. It is believed by many experts that East Java by itself claims to hold 1200 versions of Ramayana.

The first portrayal of the Ramayan on stone was seen in Central Java, where the epic was carved onto the courtyard balustrades in the Chandi Shiva and Chandi Brahma temples, locally known as Lara Jonggrang.  Lara Jonggrang, also has the glory of holding a full pictorial representation of the Ramayan (Balakanda to Uttarakanda). Interestingly, the town closest to this temple is known as Yogyakarta, which in old Javanese means Ayodhya (Ram’s birthplace).

In many parts of Indonesia, the banyan tree is still held as holy; and during harvest, Sri (devi Lakshmi) is held in great reverence in order to avoid offending her.  Islam, which was brought to Indonesia by Indian traders from Kerala and Gujarat in the 16th century, slowly took control over the next three hundred years.

Wajang Kulit 

While the main themes in Wajang Kulit are from Ramayan and Mahabharat, there have been many changes based on local traditions and norms, thereby further increasing its popularity and helping it grow.

A reading of the various Ramayanas found across the South East Asian countries show the widespread influence Rama’s tale once had across various nations. While narratives vary, and often perspectives seem different owing to religious and cultural differences, these Ram Kathas have become an integral part of people’s lives in these foreign nations.

Through shadow puppetry (wayang kulit and wayang purwa), the story of Ramayana helped bring about a resurgence in Hinduism. Of course, the story has been adapted from the original and changed a bit throughout the centuries. The version that you get in Indonesia is different from the one you might see in Thailand, and both are quite different from the original.

Temple Architecture Brings Ramayana Alive

Prambanan is a 9th-century Hindu temple compound in Special Region of Yogyakarta, Indonesia, dedicated to the Trimūrti, the expression of God as the Creator (Brahma), the Preserver (Vishnu) and the Transformer (Shiva).  The temple compound, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the largest Hindu temple site in Indonesia and the second-largest in Southeast Asia.

Inside the largest temple of the complex is the story of Ramayana in stone relief. On the main temple at Prambanan, the entire Ramayana is told in stone relief. The Prambanan Ballet is also held at the Prambanan Temple complex.

Oldest Hindu Temples in Cambodia

 Oldest Hindu Temples in Cambodia

Cambodia’s Hinduism can be traced back to the Funan Kingdom which ruled between 100BC and 500AD. During this period, kings worshiped Vishnu and Shiva. When the Khmer Empire came to power, Hinduism remained the dominating religion until Jayavarman VII (reigned 1181-1218).

Considered by many historians to be one of the most powerful Khmer monarchs, Jayavarman VII held strong Buddhist beliefs, being only the second Khmer king of that religion. As the mastermind behind the grand city of Angkor Thom, he built the iconic Bayon temple – the famous multi-towered temple that contains 216 gigantic faces that some say resemble Jayavarman himself and the last state temple to be built at Angkor – as a primarily Mahayana Buddhist shrine dedicated to Buddha.

During the reign of Jayavarman VII in the mid-13th Century, the Khmer Empire switched back to Hinduism. Several alterations were made to Bayon temple, today it contains both Hindu and Buddhist iconography and references, reflecting the change in state religions.

The oldest Hindu Temples in Cambodia are:

Angkor Wat

The construction of Angkor Wat took place over 28 years from 1122 to 1150 CE during the reign of King Suryavarman II (ruled 1113– c. 1150). A brahmin by the name of Divākarapaṇḍita (1040– c. 1120) was responsible for urging Suryavarman II to construct the temple.

Angkor Wat is an architectural masterpiece and the largest religious monument in the world – covering an area four times the size of Vatican City.

2. Banteay Srei

Often referred to as the art gallery of Cambodia, Banteay Srei is a Cambodia Hindu temple that is indeed confined in size, but the artistry which you will witness are beyond perfection. This ornate ruin is beautified with motifs, figures of gods, and detailed carving. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, and is the only temple in Angkor which was not commissioned by a ruler, but a Brahmin. It dates back to 10th century and was among the first temples which were restored in Angkor.

3. Phnom Bakheng

A temple that is about two centuries older than Angkor Wat, Phnom Bakheng stood as architectural landmark for the first capital of Khmer Empire, Yasodharapura. The five-tiered shikhara of the temples catches the eye and so do the four towers established on the summit. The temple is primarily visited during late afternoons by many tourists as it serves for a magnificent vantage point for sunset views.

Location: Angkor Archaeological Park, Krong Siem Reap 17000, Cambodia

4. Preah Khan

Preah Khan used to serve as a holy shrine for the followers of Hinduism and Buddhism. The temple was built by King Jayavarman VII in the twelfth century, marking the defeat of Chams. As the name Preah Khan literally translates to Holy Sword, we can imagine the pride the king took in the event and the building of the structure. It is also believed that Preah Khan served as a residence to the king as he waited for Angkor Thom to be completed. This was indeed a grand Cambodia temple as it was dedicated to about hundred gods and there were eighteen grand festivals it served as venue of.

Location: Krong Siem Reap, Cambodia

5. Banteay Samre

Banteay Samre showcases the unity of Hinduism and Buddhism. It was built in the same period as Angkor Wat and you can indeed find similarities in features such as the style of towers and balustrades. Today, Bayon stands in brilliant condition without the charm of its intricate carving faded away, thanks to careful restoration work. Banteay Samre is located away from other temples in Cambodia and hence you’d find fewer people here; good news for the travelers looking for rather peaceful tourist attraction.

Location: 17000 Sok San Road, Krong Siem Reap, Cambodia

6. Pre Rup

Formerly served as king’s state temple, Pre Rup was built in 961 by Rajendravarman II. This Hindu temple in Cambodia is dedicated to Lord Shiva and has been associated with funerary rituals. Though it was built using grey sandstone which were rather delicate and most of the temple has somehow failed the test of time, you would be able to see detailed intel carving when on the South-west Tower. This place is specifically popular for delightful sunset views.

Location: Angkor Archaeological Park, Krong Siem Reap 17000, Cambodia

7. Ta Prohm

Another of the most photographed temples in Cambodia, Ta Prohm is recognized by its labyrinth pattern of roots that cover the structures. It actually may seem to you like an octopus is holding on to something dear to it. According to a Sanskrit stone sculpture, the details of its authorities were once portrayed in the walls of the temples. As you amble through the premises, you’ll witness how nature has dominated man made remnants; but this blend is something that makes Ta Prohm stand out.

Location: Angkor Archaeological Park, Krong Siem Reap, Cambodia

8. Banteay Kdei

Built during the twelfth century, Banteay Kdei will mesmerize you with its ornate garudas. Also called the Citadel of Chambers, the temple was beautified with sculptures of women. Today is lies in ruins and is usually less crowded, making it a perfect spot for a tranquil time. The temple can be explored within an hour and it is suggested that you must also visit Sra Srang, the pool of ablutions.

Location: Angkor Archaeological Park, Krong Siem Reap 17000, Cambodia