The Hindu Business Line : Salvaged pride

It must have been an important pilgrim place for the thousands who came to worship Lord Buddha at the 9th-century Borobudur temple complex. At that time Buddhism had made inroads into several South-East Asian countries including Thailand, Cambodia and Indonesia. The gigantic monument is embellished with delicately carved stone figures. No visit to Indonesia would be complete without a trip to the World Heritage Site of Borobudur. Though largely a Muslim nation, Indonesia has taken care to preserve this monument.

The archaeological site of Borobudur is near the city of Yogyakarta and easily reached by road. Down the centuries, this magnificent Buddhist religious site lay buried by thick undergrowth.

The discovery of Borobudur is credited to Sir Thomas Stanford Raffles in 1814. He took keen interest in restoring the temple to its original condition. The site was cleared of undergrowth and the damage assessed for restoration efforts.

What started as a modest conservation effort during 1905-1910 under Dr T. van Erp progressed into the second phase in 1913, and was completed in 1983 with the assistance of UNESCO.

The temple of Borobudur stands on a small hillock. Ten levels represent the ten stages of Bodhisatva. The largest Buddhist site in the world draws the curious and the devout from near and far. Littering is a common problem at the site, and sorely missing are the information hoardings and signboards though guides are available.From each of the levels, the view of the surrounding hills, valleys and mountain stream is enchanting. Lighting at night makes the monument appear ethereal.

A pair of lion carvings guards the main entrance to the temple. Statues of the Buddha, in various stages of damage, can be spotted on each level. An amazing array of 432 Buddha statues in the seated position can be found on the terraces.

On the upper circular terraces, latticed stupas house 72 Buddha statues. Right at the top is a statue of Buddha in serene meditation. As many as 1,500 stone panels relate the story of the Buddha.

Karma Wibhangga Museum displays details of the restoration project accompanied by photographs. Some stone panels unearthed from the archaeological site depict various scenes from mythology. A pavilion outside the temple houses ancient musical instruments and these are open to public viewing. The museum also has statues of Hindu gods such as Ganesha.

Borobudur gives visitors a glimpse into an ancient and glorious civilisation.

Pictures by the author

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