Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto formally launched the restoration of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Prambanan Temple in Yogyakarta on Wednesday.
PM Modi said at the inauguration ceremony that President Prabowo Subianto had asked him to fulfil his promise of completing the Prambanan Temple restoration project before 2029. He also said President Subianto had invited him to return to Indonesia to celebrate the completion of the restoration.
PM Modi accepted the invitation and promised that he would visit Indonesia again after the restoration work is completed to join the celebrations.
During his speech, PM Modi said Indonesia reflects its cultural heritage in its traditions, daily life and conversations. He added that the country’s vibrant cultural atmosphere reminded him of India’s rich civilisational legacy.
The Prime Minister also commended the Indonesian people for safeguarding their historical and cultural treasures, adding that the shared heritage continues to strengthen the friendship between the two countries.
Temple Visit
After inaugurating the project, PM Modi visited the Prambanan Temple, offered prayers, and interacted with temple authorities. Devotees greeted him with chants of ‘Om Namah Shivay’, making the visit especially memorable.
The Prime Minister reflected on his lifelong association with Lord Shiva, mentioning sacred places including Hatkeshwar Mahadev in Vadnagar, Somnath Jyotirlinga, Kashi Vishwanath in Varanasi, Kedarnath and the Mahakal Temple in Ujjain. He said participating in the restoration of cultural and religious heritage has been a privilege.
PM Modi said devotees chant the Mahamrityunjaya Mantra at both Kailash Mansarovar and the Prambanan Temple, highlighting the deep spiritual connection between India and Indonesia. He described Prambanan as one of Southeast Asia’s most significant centres of shared heritage, housing revered idols of Lord Shiva, Goddess Durga and Lord Ganesha.
Expressing optimism about growing cultural exchanges, PM Modi said the restored temple would attract more Indian visitors and further deepen the centuries-old relationship between the two nations.
Also Read: ‘Om Namah Shivay’ Echoes As PM Modi Offers Prayers At Prambanan Temple
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