From Bali, Calls for Unity Echo in Dharma Santi 2026
The National Dharma Santi 2026 was held in Bali with a strong message on unity and tolerance. This celebration marked the conclusion of the Saka 1948 Nyepi holy day series, reaffirming the importance of harmony amid Indonesia’s diversity.
The event took place solemnly at the Taman Werdhi Budaya Art Centre in Denpasar on Friday (17/4/2026). Around 5,500 participants attended, including several state officials and national figures.
The Head of the Pancasila Ideology Development Agency, Yudian Wahyudi, was present alongside Deputy Minister of Culture Giring Ganesha, Deputy Minister of Tourism Ni Luh Puspa, and Deputy Minister of Population and Family Development Ratu Ayu Isyana Bagoes Oka. Bali Governor Wayan Koster also accompanied guests from home and abroad.
Carrying the theme “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam: One Earth, One Family, Harmonious Archipelago for an Advanced Indonesia,” the event stressed the importance of universal brotherhood. The General Chairman of the Parisada Hindu Dharma Indonesia Central Board, Wisnu Bawa Tenaya, stated that this moment serves as a reminder to respect one another.
“Through this Dharma Santi, we wish to convey a message to people worldwide to respect each other. In line with the President’s Asta Cita, harmonisation and collaboration among religious communities is the main key to the strength of the nation based on Pancasila,” said Wisnu.
BPIP Head Yudian Wahyudi added that the value of Bhinneka Tunggal Ika is inseparable from the dimension of divinity, which forms the foundation of national life. He assessed that Bali’s harmony could serve as a real example for the world.
“The harmony created in Bali demonstrates how peaceful coexistence and civilisation can be built, a model that can certainly be applied by all followers of other religions in national life,” said Yudian.
Event Chairman I Made Susila Adnyana explained that this year’s theme was chosen to strengthen awareness that humanity is one big family. According to him, this value is essential for protecting the earth and strengthening human relations.
“This spirit invites us to strengthen universal brotherhood and care for the earth as a shared home. Dharma Santi becomes a forum to enhance ties, forgive one another, and improve the quality of interfaith harmony throughout Indonesia,” said I Made.
The National Dharma Santi also provides a space for reflection for the faithful to implement religious teachings in daily life. The messages of tolerance and unity proclaimed from Bali are hoped to continue to flourish in Indonesia’s pluralistic society.