Hinduism was one of the major religions that spread across the world and had a significant influence on various cultures. In Indonesia, the influence of Hinduism can be seen in various regions. Hinduism entered Indonesia through traders who came from India and settled in the Indonesian archipelago. Here are some regions in Nusantara that were influenced by Hindu elements:
1. Java
Java is one of the regions in Indonesia that was strongly influenced by Hinduism. The Hindu influence can be seen in the architecture of the temples and the rituals that are still practiced today. The famous Borobudur and Prambanan temples are examples of the Hindu influence on Java. The Ramayana and Mahabharata epics are also widely known in Java and have been adapted into various forms including puppet shows or wayang kulit.
2. Bali
Bali is known as the Island of the Gods and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Indonesia. The Hindu influence on Bali can be seen in the daily life of the people, from the offerings that are placed on the streets to the elaborate ceremonies that are held throughout the year. Balinese Hinduism is a unique blend of Hinduism, Buddhism, and animism.
3. Sumatra
Sumatra is the sixth-largest island in the world and is located in western Indonesia. The Hindu influence on Sumatra can be seen in the architecture of the temples and the names of the places. One of the famous temples in Sumatra is Muara Jambi, which was built in the 7th century. The name of the temple is derived from the Sanskrit word “Jambu” which means “Rose Apple”.
4. Kalimantan
Kalimantan is the Indonesian part of the island of Borneo and is located in the central part of Indonesia. The Hindu influence on Kalimantan can be seen in the names of the places and the rituals that are still practiced today. The Dayak people, who are the indigenous people of Kalimantan, have their own unique blend of Hinduism and animism.
5. Sulawesi
Sulawesi is one of the largest islands in Indonesia and is located in the central part of Indonesia. The Hindu influence on Sulawesi can be seen in the architecture of the temples and the names of the places. One of the famous temples in Sulawesi is Bumi Sangkuriang, which was built in the 14th century. The name of the temple is derived from the Sanskrit word “Sangkuriang” which means “the son of a king”.
6. Lombok
Lombok is an island located in the West Nusa Tenggara province of Indonesia. The Hindu influence on Lombok can be seen in the architecture of the temples and the rituals that are still practiced today. One of the famous temples in Lombok is Pura Lingsar, which was built in the 18th century. The temple is a symbol of unity between the Hindu and Muslim communities in Lombok.
7. Maluku
Maluku, also known as the Moluccas, is a group of islands located in eastern Indonesia. The Hindu influence on Maluku can be seen in the names of the places and the rituals that are still practiced today. The people of Maluku have their own unique blend of Hinduism and animism.
8. Papua
Papua is located in the eastern part of Indonesia and is the largest island in Indonesia. The Hindu influence on Papua can be seen in the names of the places and the rituals that are still practiced today. The people of Papua have their own unique blend of Hinduism and animism.
9. Nusa Tenggara
Nusa Tenggara is a group of islands located in eastern Indonesia. The Hindu influence on Nusa Tenggara can be seen in the architecture of the temples and the names of the places. One of the famous temples in Nusa Tenggara is Pura Lempuyang Luhur, which was built in the 11th century. The name of the temple is derived from the Sanskrit word “Lempuyang” which means “lightning”.
10. Riau Islands
The Riau Islands are a group of islands located in the eastern part of Sumatra. The Hindu influence on the Riau Islands can be seen in the names of the places and the rituals that are still practiced today. The people of the Riau Islands have their own unique blend of Hinduism and animism.
Conclusion
The Hindu influence on various regions in Nusantara can be seen in the architecture of the temples, the names of the places, and the rituals that are still practiced today. The influence of Hinduism on these regions has enriched the culture and heritage of Indonesia. It is important to preserve and promote this heritage for future generations to appreciate and learn from.
