On February 28, 2024, hundreds of Hindus from the Special Region of Yogyakarta (DIY) and Central Java gathered to participate in the Galungan procession at the Prambanan Temple area in Yogyakarta. The Galungan event holds significance as it commemorates the creation of the universe and expresses gratitude for the blessings bestowed by Sang Hyang Widhi Wasa, the Supreme God of Indonesian Hinduism. Participants engaged in the procession by offering prayers and presenting offerings at the main zone of Prambanan Temple.
Throughout the procession, Hindus performed rituals such as prayers within the temple courtyard and purification ceremonies by offering and sprinkling holy water to cleanse the temple. Following these rituals, stakeholders offered further prayers in the temple hall and engaged in group prayers to mark the occasion.
This year’s Galungan procession at Prambanan Temple marks the third celebration since the issuance of the Memorandum of Agreement of Four Ministers and Two Governors regarding the Utilization of Prambanan Temple and Borobudur Temple for the Religious Benefits of Hindus and Buddhists worldwide. Didik Widya Putra, the Hindu Community Guide (Pembimas) in DI Yogyakarta, highlighted that the Galungan celebration is a time to reflect on the creation of the universe and its inhabitants.
According to historical documents like the Purana Bali Dwipa, Galungan Day has been celebrated since 882 AD or Saka year 804, coinciding with the Full Moon of Kapat (Kliwon Dungulan Buddha). This day symbolizes the triumph of Dharma (goodness) over aDharma (badness), signifying victory in the eternal struggle between good and evil.
