PM Narendra Modi Offers Prayers at Prambanan Temple, 'Om Namah Shivaya' Chants Go Viral

New Delhi: During Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Indonesia, a scene emerged that would send shivers down the spine. When hundreds of voices were chanting 'Om Namah Shivay' together in the historical Prambanan temple of Yogyakarta, it felt as if the heartbeat of Sanatan were alive even thousands of kilometres away from India. PM Modi posted the video of this moment on his X account. The caption simply read, "Om Namah Shivay in Prambanan Temple, Indonesia! "And that's it, the video took the internet by storm. Till now millions of people have seen it.

What was shown in the video? 

In the clip, it is seen that dozens of devotees are sitting with folded hands on the ground in the open courtyard of the temple. Eyes closed, completely absorbed in meditation. And everyone is chanting 'Om Namah Shivay' in unison. The atmosphere was so peaceful and devotional that words fell short. PM Modi was also standing at the back with folded hands. Peace was clearly visible on his face. It didn't feel as if he was in another country. 

With whom did Modi reach Prambanan?

On Wednesday, PM Modi reached this 1000 year old temple with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto. Both of them performed special prayers here. This temple is not only of Lord Shiva. It is dedicated to the Trimurti, Shiva, Vishnu and Brahma. Both the leaders came here from Yogyakarta by helicopter. On the way, PM Modi also captured the view of the temple from above and wrote, 'Grand Prambanan Temple!'

What big decision did India and Indonesia take together?

This journey was not limited to just worship. A day before this, India and Indonesia have signed an important agreement. Both countries will now work together on the conservation and restoration of Prambanan Temple. In the bilateral meeting on Tuesday, PM Modi and President Prabowo also exchanged 'Letter of Intent' for this project. It can be said that this step will give new strength to India's 'Act East' policy and will further deepen the cultural relations between the two countries.

How special is Prambanan Temple?

Prambanan Temple, located on the Indonesian island of Java, is one of the most important Hindu temple complexes in Southeast Asia. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva, Vishnu and Brahma and is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. There used to be about 240 temples in this complex spread over about 40 hectares. According to historians, its construction began in the 9th century during the reign of the Hindu Mataram Kingdom.

Why is this journey being viewed from a diplomatic perspective?

Experts believe that Prime Minister Modi's visit to Prambanan is a step to further strengthen the cultural trust between the two countries. Relations between India and Indonesia have their roots in thousands of years of history of trade, culture and civilisation. In such a situation, the presence of top leaders of both the countries at the World Heritage Site and the agreement on the conservation project can open new avenues of cultural cooperation in the future.

This is the reason why this journey is being seen not just as a religious event but as an important opportunity to give a new identity to the shared heritage.