Tue, 13 Jul 2004

Temple as a TV setting?

From Kompas

The Indonesian Educational Television (TPI) station aired on Thursday, May 25, a program called Gentayangan (Roaming) set at Masceti Temple in Gianyar, Bali. The program was a "test of courage". As a Hindu, I was both disappointed and angered by this program, because a temple is a holy place where Hindus pray to God.

TPI management argues that they got permission from the temple keeper, and do not seem concerned about the feelings of Hindus. Why doesn't TPI set a cultural or religious program at a temple, for example?

As a national television station, TPI should air programs that foster mutual appreciation of the different faiths that are practiced here.

The station should stop using temples for programs that are about mysticism. Nobody wishes to see their religious place used in such a way. It must also be borne in mind that a temple belongs to all Hindus, not just its keeper.

PUTU BK Jakarta