Wesak Day 2024: Hundreds Of Buddhist Devotees Illuminate Progo River, Yogyakarta

YOGYAKARTA, May 22 (Bernama) -- Hundreds of Buddhist devotees gathered along the banks of the Progo River which is located about 2 km east of Borobudur temple, Yogyakarta, here on Tuesday evening to illuminate the water with the soft glow of candlelight lantern.

The event, known as the Larung Pelita Purnama Siddhi, took place as part of the Borobudur Peace & Prosperity Festival 2024.

Member of Majelis Umat Nyingma Indonesia (MUNI) Ricky Surya Prakasa said the ritual is known as a symbol of enlightenment for all beings and a prayer for world peace.

"The water lantern we will let in after the three big stupa released, which symbolised the Triratna (three jewels) into the river.

"We will also wear the sarung (kain batik, a long traditional wraparound cloth tied at the waist); it's very beautiful, which is our cultural clothing to do the ritual at river," he said when met at Borobudur Temple here.

He said events such as the Larung Pelita Purnama Siddhi seeks to bring people together in a shared celebration of humanity's spiritual heritage.

Meanwhile, the devotees, dressed in traditional attire, assembled near Candi Pawon, a significant Buddhist temple in the region.

Led by monks chanting ancient prayers, the procession made its way towards the Progo River, a sacred waterway revered by Buddhists for its spiritual significance.

Along the journey, the flickering flames cast a gentle glow, creating an ethereal ambiance that seemed to transcend time and space.

Upon reaching the riverbank, the devotees gently released their illuminated offerings onto the water's surface

-- BERNAMA