Huge procession marks Eka Buana rite<\/p>\n
BESAKIH, Bali (JP): Thousands of Hindu devotees take part in a
\nspectacular procession. The march, which started at Pura Besakih,
\nthe biggest sanctuary in Bali, and ended at Klotok beach
\nyesterday, is part of the great Eka Buana rite, which happens
\nonce in a century.<\/p>\n
Accompanied by gamelan music, they carried sacred weapons,
\nstatues and inscriptions, and various kind of offerings along the
\n40-kilometer route under the scorching sun. At certain spots
\nalong the way, thousands of others sat solemnly on the ground,
\nwaiting patiently for hours before they could witness the great
\nevent and share the blessings. Many of them later joined the
\nprocession.<\/p>\n
As the procession approached the Klotok beach, the line became
\nlonger and longer. The participants made an at least four-
\nkilometer line.<\/p>\n
The procession started at around 11 a.m. and the first
\nmembers reached the beach at 6:30 p.m. A series of ceremonies
\nwere held in a temple on the beach, including the purification of
\nsacred weapons, mostly kris, as the symbol of fire, the strength
\nof nature.<\/p>\n
Among the tens of thousands in the congregation was Bali
\nGovernor Ida Bagus Oka and other high-ranking government
\nofficials.<\/p>\n
\"The people's enthusiasm for participating in these rituals
\nshows their high respect for their religion,\" Ida Bagus Oka told
\njournalists.<\/p>\n
This adherence to religious teachings is important to prevent
\nany negative impact of tourism, he added.<\/p>\n
The Eka Buana rite will culminate on March 20. This will be
\nwitnessed by Vice President Try Sutrisno and a number of VIP
\nguests. (sim)<\/p>",
"url": "https:\/\/jawawa.id\/newsitem\/huge-procession-marks-eka-buana-rite-1447893297",
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