Ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Indonesia’s Prambanan Temple, India and Indonesia have agreed on a conservation and restoration project at the temple complex. The exchange of a Letter of Intent occurred after discussions between PM Modi and Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, aiming to strengthen their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and promote a peaceful Indo-Pacific region.
The Prambanan Temple, built in the 10th century, is Indonesia’s largest Hindu temple complex, primarily dedicated to Lord Shiva. Featuring temples for the Hindu trinity of Shiva, Vishnu, and Brahma, along with intricate reliefs depicting scenes from the Ramayana, the temple symbolizes the deep cultural ties between India and Southeast Asia. India has actively supported the restoration of significant religious and heritage sites in neighboring countries over the past decade.
In Bangladesh, India assisted in reconstructing the historic Ramna Kali Temple destroyed during Pakistan’s Operation Searchlight in 1971. The restoration of temples like Joy Kali Mata Temple in Natore and support for other Hindu faith centers in Bangladesh showcase India’s commitment to preserving cultural heritage. Additionally, India has undertaken conservation work at the Mỹ Sơn Sanctuary in Vietnam, the Bagan Archaeological Zone in Myanmar, and the Angkor Heritage Complex in Cambodia, among other sites.
