REGIONAL NEWS
Developing the character of the younger generation requires more than formal education; it also calls for a strong spiritual foundation. Guided by this principle, Hindu Religious Counselor Ni Ketut Putriani conducted a religious guidance session for Hindu youth in Labuhan Indah Village during the Tilem prayer observance at Pura Dalem Banjar Labuhan Indah, Way Serdang District, Mesuji Regency, on Tuesday.
The activity brought together Hindu youth, traditional community leaders, and local devotees as a forum to deepen their understanding of Hindu teachings while strengthening the moral character of young people amid rapid social change and technological advancement. In addition to offering prayers together, participants took part in the recitation of sacred sloka and a dharma wacana (religious discourse) highlighting life values rooted in Hindu scriptures.
During the session, Ni Ketut Putriani reflected on Bhagavad Gita XVI.1, "Abhayam sattva-saṁśuddhir jñāna-yoga-vyavasthitiḥ," which emphasizes the virtues of fearlessness, purity of heart, and steadfastness in living a life guided by Dharma. She explained that these timeless teachings remain highly relevant for today's younger generation as they navigate an era of rapid transformation.
She explained that the challenges facing young people today extend beyond technological advancement. They also include the ability to critically assess information, uphold ethical values, and preserve the noble traditions and cultural heritage passed down by previous generations.
"The progress of the modern world should never cause us to lose our direction. Hindu youth must use knowledge and technology wisely while continuing to make Dharma the guiding compass of every step in life. When sradha (faith) and bhakti (devotion) are firmly rooted, they will have the courage to choose the righteous path," Ni Ketut Putriani said.
She also encouraged participants to make Hindu values the foundation for building harmonious relationships within their families, communities, and the broader society. Mutual respect, responsibility, honesty, and compassion for others, she noted, are tangible expressions of Hindu teachings that should be practiced in everyday life.
The guidance session was conducted in a warm and interactive atmosphere. Participants actively engaged not only by listening to the dharma wacana but also through discussions on issues affecting young people, including peer relationships, responsible use of social media, and the importance of maintaining a healthy balance between education, spiritual life, and daily activities.
The Kelian Adat (traditional village leader) of Labuhan Indah expressed appreciation for the Hindu Religious Counselor's ongoing commitment to mentoring the community, particularly its younger members. He noted that the continuous guidance has encouraged Hindu youth to become more actively involved in religious activities while preserving Hindu cultural values.
"Programs like this are greatly needed. They provide young people not only with religious knowledge but also with motivation to build strong character, respect their parents and teachers, and develop a sense of responsibility toward themselves and their community. The presence of Hindu Religious Counselors has become a positive force in strengthening religious life in our village," he said.
Religious guidance for young people represents a vital investment in ensuring the continuity of Hindu religious life. Through a deeper understanding of the sacred scriptures, strengthened sradha and bhakti, and sustained mentorship, Hindu youth are expected to grow into a generation that upholds the values of Dharma, adapts wisely to the demands of the modern world, and makes meaningful contributions to society.
Editor : I Made Juni Saputra
Photographer : I Gusti Ngurah Sathya Dharma
Contributed and translated by Muhammad Mahmud Alhushori
