Commemorating Nyepi, Hindus in Ambon Hold the Ogoh-ogoh Parade

JAKARTA - Hundreds of Hindus in Ambon City, Maluku, held the Ogoh-Ogoh Parade to commemorate Nyepi Day in the Saka Year 1945 in the city centre, Tuesday, March 21.

The Chairperson of the Maluku Hindu Dharma Indonesia (PHDI) Parisada, I Wayan Sutapa in Ambon, said that for this parade, local Hindus made two red and black ogoh-ogohs, symbols of spirit rulers so as not to disturb the people.

"The Ogoh-Ogoh Parade is a process of cleaning the earth from all dirt, so it is hoped that the earth can be clean again", he said.

The parade was lively. The giant statue is paraded along the streets of Ambon City. This is the first time the Ogoh-Ogoh Parade has been held in Ambon City.

Before the parade, Hindus carry out the redemption or grand Tawur ceremony. According to him, Ogoh-Ogoh is a sculptural work in Balinese culture which depicts the personality of "Bhuta Kala".

"In the teachings of Hindu Dharma, 'Bhuta Kala' is the power of the universe that is measurable and undeniable", he said.

He revealed that "Bhuta Kala" is depicted as a large and frightening figure or usually in the form of a giant.

"I hope this activity can be useful for Ambon City residents", he said.