Huge procession marks Eka Buana rite

Huge procession marks Eka Buana rite

BESAKIH, Bali (JP): Thousands of Hindu devotees take part in a spectacular procession. The march, which started at Pura Besakih, the biggest sanctuary in Bali, and ended at Klotok beach yesterday, is part of the great Eka Buana rite, which happens once in a century.

Accompanied by gamelan music, they carried sacred weapons, statues and inscriptions, and various kind of offerings along the 40-kilometer route under the scorching sun. At certain spots along the way, thousands of others sat solemnly on the ground, waiting patiently for hours before they could witness the great event and share the blessings. Many of them later joined the procession.

As the procession approached the Klotok beach, the line became longer and longer. The participants made an at least four- kilometer line.

The procession started at around 11 a.m. and the first members reached the beach at 6:30 p.m. A series of ceremonies were held in a temple on the beach, including the purification of sacred weapons, mostly kris, as the symbol of fire, the strength of nature.

Among the tens of thousands in the congregation was Bali Governor Ida Bagus Oka and other high-ranking government officials.

"The people's enthusiasm for participating in these rituals shows their high respect for their religion," Ida Bagus Oka told journalists.

This adherence to religious teachings is important to prevent any negative impact of tourism, he added.

The Eka Buana rite will culminate on March 20. This will be witnessed by Vice President Try Sutrisno and a number of VIP guests. (sim)