200 dancers to mark Dharma Santi

DENPASAR, Bali: At least 200 dancers will take part in the Dharma Santi celebration at the Ardha Candra Taman Budaya arts center here on Sunday, Antara reported.

President Soeharto will attend the event which marks the Hindu Day of Silence, or Nyepi, which this year coincides with the start of the Caka year 1920, according to organizer I Dewa Putu Tengah.

The dance itself is arranged by local choreographers and is presented in the form of a drama. A number of cabinet ministers and foreign dignitaries will also attend, as will some 7,500 other guests.

In addition to artistic performances, the celebration will also be marked with the recital of verses from the Hindu holy book, the Veda.

Hindus make up 2 percent of Indonesia's population of 203 million people. Most live in Bali. (swe)