Buddhists Hold Puja Yatra Procession from Mendut to Borobudur for Asadha 2570 BE

Thousands of Buddhists from various regions participated in the Puja Yatra procession from Candi Mendut to Candi Borobudur in Magelang, Central Java. The procession was part of the peak celebrations for Asadha 2570 BE, organised as part of the Indonesia Tipitaka Chanting event. Approximately 12,000 Buddhists from Central Java, the Special Region of Yogyakarta, East Java, and other areas joined the procession, which started at Candi Mendut, passed Candi Pawon, and concluded at Candi Borobudur. During the procession, participants escorted several sacred carriages, including the Mahadhatu Golden Carriage, the Relic Carriage, the Tipitaka Carriage, and the Dhammacakka or Wheel of Dharma carriage. These symbols represent the moment when Gautama Buddha first expounded the Dharma at the Deer Park in Isipatana, which is the core meaning of Asadha Day. Unlike the procession during Vesak celebrations, the Asadha series held by Theravada Buddhists in Indonesia features ornaments and processions that refer to the Tipitaka scriptures. Throughout the journey, the thousands of participants did not merely walk but chanted the parittas of Buddhanussati, Dhammanussati, and Sanghanussati as a form of contemplation on the qualities of the Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha. Thus, the Puja Yatra is interpreted as a meditative journey as well as a tribute to the Tiratana. Maichel Limawan, a participant from Bekasi, said this was his fourth time joining the event. He considered the opportunity to participate in the Indonesia Tipitaka Chanting and the peak of the Asadha celebration a very valuable moment, as the complete recitation of the suttas is rarely performed by laypeople. He added that this year’s celebration was particularly special as it coincided with the 50th anniversary of the Sangha Theravada Indonesia, a moment he felt would not be repeated.