Indonesia Tipitaka Chanting at Borobudur Highlights Universal Values

RRI.CO.ID, Magelang - Chanting sacred verses echoed across Borobudur Temple as thousands of Buddhists gathered for the 2026 Indonesia Tipitaka Chanting (ITC).

The three‑day ritual became a vibrant space for learning the Dhamma -- the Buddha’s teachings -- while fostering cross‑cultural brotherhood and cultivating values of wisdom, compassion, and tolerance.

Amid the solemn atmosphere, the youngest generation stood out. Two novices from Blitar, East Java, proved that age is no barrier to pursuing a spiritual path, radiating enthusiasm for studying Dhamma and inspiring fellow participants.

Eleven‑year‑old Luxio Madha WS said he joined ITC to follow in his older brother’s footsteps, hoping his peers would also be inspired to learn scripture reading in the years ahead. His fellow novice, Samanera Abhijata, was captivated by the ceremonies.

“I participated in this ITC because I was impressed by the ceremonies. I also want to learn more about Dhamma,” he said at Borobudur Temple on Saturday, July 25, 2026, as quoted on the official website of the Ministry of Religious Affairs.

From July 24–26, 2026, the chanting filled the Borobudur temple complex, creating harmony that transcended age, culture, and geography. The event demonstrated that the universal values of the Dhamma unite despite differences.

Hardiansyah, a participant from Balangan Regency, South Kalimantan, described ITC 2026 as a beacon of hope that strengthened his conviction to continue learning and practicing the Dhamma.

“Despite my limited circumstances, I believe that by learning and practicing the Dhamma, good karma will bear fruit and bad karma will be eradicated. I hope all ITC 2026 participants remain enthusiastic about learning and practicing the Dhamma in daily life so we can all become wiser and happier,” he said.

The atmosphere of brotherhood also touched international participants. Bhante Rev. Gonahene Utharanda from Sri Lanka expressed gratitude upon chanting sacred verses at Borobudur for the first time.

“This is my first time participating in the ITC at Borobudur. I had a great opportunity to join Indonesian Buddhists and recite the Tipitaka with them. This was a real opportunity for us to engage in dialogue about Buddhist teachings and cultures from various regions. Thank you to everyone for giving me the opportunity to participate in ITC 2026,” he said.

The Indonesia Tipitaka Chanting 2026 reaffirmed its role as an annual religious ritual that fosters understanding of the Dhamma, strengthens brotherhood, and promotes values of wisdom, compassion, tolerance, and peace.

Participants from Blitar, South Kalimantan, and Sri Lanka united in learning, dialogue, and compassion at Lumbini Park in the Borobudur Temple complex in Magelang, Central Java. ***