Hindu ritual in Palangkaraya

PALANGKARAYA, Central Kalimantan: Hindu religious leaders have started a ritual called Tiwah, which is aimed at helping the spirits of their ancestors ascend to heaven.

The 18-day ceremony, worth Rp 50 million (US$21,276), is being financed by the families of 27 dead people in Palangkaraya.

The ceremony started Saturday and the peak of the event, called Tabuh, will take place from Oct. 27 to Oct. 31.

The ceremonies will be open to the public. (ste)