Yogyakarta, July 8: Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the historic Prambanan Temple Complex in Yogyakarta, Indonesia, along with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, underscoring the centuries-old cultural and civilisational ties between India and Southeast Asia. The visit highlighted the shared Hindu heritage of the two nations and marked a significant step in strengthening cultural diplomacy between India and Indonesia.
Prambanan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the largest Hindu temple complex in Indonesia and one of Southeast Asia’s most important historical monuments. The temple stands as a lasting symbol of the deep cultural exchanges that connected the Indian subcontinent with the Indonesian archipelago over a thousand years ago.
A Symbol of Shared Heritage
Built during the 9th century, the Prambanan Temple Complex is dedicated to the Hindu trinity of Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva. The temple’s intricate carvings depict scenes from the Ramayana, reflecting the enduring influence of Indian civilisation on Javanese culture.
Prime Minister Modi described the monument as a powerful reminder of the historical bonds that continue to unite India and Indonesia beyond geography and time.
India to Support Temple Restoration
During the visit, India and Indonesia formally launched an initiative for the conservation and restoration of the Prambanan Temple Complex. The restoration work will be supported by India’s Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) in collaboration with Indonesian heritage authorities.
The project aims to preserve one of the world’s finest examples of Hindu architecture while protecting the monument for future generations.
Strengthening Cultural Diplomacy
The temple visit formed an important part of Prime Minister Modi’s state visit to Indonesia and complemented the broader strategic discussions held between the two countries on defence, trade, maritime security, digital cooperation, and emerging technologies.
Both leaders emphasised that cultural heritage remains an essential pillar of the India–Indonesia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and contributes to stronger people-to-people ties.
Ramayana Tradition Continues to Inspire
One of Prambanan’s unique attractions is its world-famous Ramayana Ballet, where artists perform the ancient Indian epic against the backdrop of the illuminated temple complex. The performance has become a symbol of the cultural links shared by India and Indonesia for centuries.
Officials noted that preserving sites such as Prambanan strengthens mutual understanding while promoting tourism, education and cultural exchanges between the two countries.
Reinforcing India–Indonesia Relations
Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Prambanan concluded the cultural leg of his Indonesia tour before continuing his broader Indo-Pacific diplomatic engagements. The visit reaffirmed India’s commitment to preserving shared heritage while expanding cooperation with Indonesia across strategic, economic and cultural sectors.
Source: Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Government of India
Original Report:
https://www.mea.gov.in/
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/
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