ASIATODAY.ID, MAGELANG — The ancient Borobudur Temple became the center of a major Buddhist spiritual celebration as thousands of monks, devotees, and cultural participants joined the Asadha Mahapuja Sacred Procession, marking the closing of Indonesia Tipitaka Chanting (ITC) 2570 BE.
The Puja Yatra Asadha 2570 BE procession began at Mendut Temple and continued toward Borobudur Temple in Central Java, creating a remarkable display of Indonesia’s living Buddhist heritage and centuries-old spiritual traditions.
The sacred journey featured a series of ceremonial chariots, including the Mahadhatu Royal Chariot, Relic Chariot, Tipitaka Chariot, and Dhammacakka Chariot, symbolizing the first teaching of Buddha Gautama at Deer Park, Isipatana — the central meaning of the Asadha celebration.
Accompanied by the chanting of Buddhanussati, Dhammanussati, and Sanghanussati, participants walked approximately 4.6 kilometers as a form of reflection on the values of Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha.
More than a religious ceremony, the procession represented a meditative journey that encouraged mindfulness, compassion, purity, and wisdom among participants.
Bhikkhu Gutadhammo Mahathera, Chairman of the ITC and Asalha Mahapuja Organizing Committee, said the Puja Yatra carried a deeper spiritual meaning beyond the physical act of walking.
“Puja Yatra is a practice of mindfulness. Devotees are invited to calm their minds and reflect on the noble qualities of Buddha’s teachings,” he said.
The 2026 Indonesia Tipitaka Chanting and Asalha Mahapuja, organized by the Sangha Theravada Indonesia (STI), carries the theme “Walking the Noble Path, Contributing to the Nation.”
The theme encourages Buddhist communities to apply Dharma values in everyday life while making positive contributions to society and Indonesia’s development.
Held at one of the world’s most iconic heritage sites, the Asadha Mahapuja celebration also strengthens Indonesia’s position as a destination for cultural and spiritual tourism.
Borobudur, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, continues to serve as a global symbol of Indonesia’s historical legacy, religious diversity, and commitment to preserving cultural traditions.
Through events such as Indonesia Tipitaka Chanting, Borobudur is not only preserved as an ancient monument but also revitalized as a meeting point for spirituality, culture, and international dialogue. (AT Network)
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