The Director General of Hindu Community Guidance at the Ministry of Religious Affairs, Prof. I Nengah Duija, attended Tawur Agung ceremony as part of the grand series of sacred rituals comprising Karya Agung Ngenteg Linggih, Mamungkah, Ngusaba Agung, Mlaspas Mapedagingan, Pedudusan Agung, Manawa Ratna, and Tawur Balik Sumpah Agung at Pura Dalem Suka Luwih, Batuan Village, Sukawati District, Gianyar Regency, Bali, on Sunday. His attendance was part of an invitation to ngrastitiang—offering prayers and blessings for the successful and smooth completion of the entire yadnya ceremony.
The attendance of the Director General reflected continued support for the preservation of Hindu traditions and the strengthening of religious life within the community. The ceremony was also attended by several prominent figures, including members of the Sukawati and Ubud royal families, members of the House of Representatives, and community leaders. The participation of these figures alongside local devotees highlighted the strong spirit of cooperation and devotion that underpins the implementation of Karya Agung at Pura Dalem Suka Luwih.
A sacred atmosphere enveloped the temple grounds from early morning. The harmonious sounds of traditional gamelan music and the solemn procession of rituals reflected the spirit of ngayah (selfless service) and the collective dedication of the community in supporting one of the most significant religious ceremonies held in the Sukawati area.
On the occasion, Prof. I Nengah Duija expressed his appreciation for the strong sense of unity demonstrated by the community in carrying out the yadnya. He explained that Karya Agung represents a tangible expression of devotion in maintaining harmony between humanity, nature, and Ida Sang Hyang Widhi Wasa.
"Yadnya is a manifestation of sincerity and sacred sacrifice rooted in sraddha and bhakti. The spirit of togetherness demonstrated by the community throughout this ceremony is an essential force in preserving the continuity of Dharma and the rich cultural heritage of Hinduism," he said.
The Chief Administrator (Prajuru Ageng) of Dalem Suka Luwih expressed gratitude for the presence of the Director General and other distinguished guests who had taken the time to participate in ngrastitiang and praying for the success of the ceremony. Their attendance was regarded as a source of encouragement and moral support for the community carrying out the various stages of the rituals.
"We are deeply honored and grateful for the presence of the Director General of Hindu Community Guidance and all invited guests who have joined us in offering prayers for the smooth implementation of this Karya Agung. Their presence brings joy and provides moral support for the entire community," he stated.
During the event, Prof. I Nengah Duija also presented a genta (ritual bell) to the guardian of Pura Dalem Suka Luwih. The bell will be used by pinandita (Hindu religious officiants) during religious ceremonies and community spiritual services at the temple.
The presentation of the genta was warmly received by temple guardian and members of the community. Beyond its practical function in ritual ceremonies, the bell symbolizes support for strengthening religious services and preserving the spiritual traditions that continue to thrive within the community.
Karya Agung at Pura Dalem Suka Luwih will continue for several more weeks, featuring a series of sacred ceremonies involving devotees and volunteers from various regions. The spirit of devotion, unity, and mutual cooperation that characterizes the yadnya serves as a powerful reflection of the community’s commitment to preserving the sanctity of the temple and safeguarding Hindu values and traditions for future generations.
Editor : I Made Juni Saputra
Photographer : I Gusti Ngurah Sathya Dharma
Contributed and translated by Muhammad Mahmud Alhushori
