Indian epic Ramayana holds great importance in Hinduism. Ramayana is a sacred scripture for Hindus which narrates the life of Lord Rama and Goddess Sita and the related legend. While the importance of Ramayana is quite pervasive in Hindu nations, it also has a rich legend in Indonesia.
Hinduism came to Indonesia in the first century through traders, sailors, scholars and priests. The epic Ramayana came to Indonesia around the 8th or 9th century. The Hindu epic was written in the old Javanese language which is popularly known as Kakawin Ramayana. It was used to revive Hinduism at a time when Buddhism was well established in Sumatra, West and Central Java. However, Kakawin Ramayana differs from the original Indian version in some ways.
Ramayana is such an ingrained aspect of Indonesian culture that it has represented a source of moral and spiritual guidance as well as an aesthetic expression. And, Bali is the perfect example of the living legend of Ramayana in Indonesia.
Sculptors have carved the story of Ramayana in stone along the banks of the Ayung River in Ubud, Bali. The carvings depict the story of Ramayana, Lord Vishnu’s incarnation as a human (Ram), his marriage, 14 years of exile, Sita’s kidnapping by Demon King Ravana, and the epic battle between Ram and Ravana to rescue Sita.
The sculptures carved on the stones along the river banks describe the rich tale of Ramayana that will instantly draw anyone’s attention.
Undoubtedly, the history carved on the stone will remain till eternity speaking the history of India and Hinduism for generations.