Jaya Suprana Awards MURI Record to Shri Sanathana Dharma Aalayam Temple
JAKARTA, Investortrust.id – The Shri Sanathana Dharma Aalayam Temple in Kalideres, West Jakarta, received a certificate from Indonesian World Records Museum, or MURI, on Sunday, Feb 2, 2025, recognizing it as Indonesia's largest Hindu temple.
MURI founder Jaya Suprana presented the award to the temple's founder, A.S. Kobalen, and declared that the temple's grandeur surpassed national recognition, deserving a place on the global stage. "On behalf of the Indonesian people, MURI presents this certificate of recognition. After seeing this magnificent structure, we cannot acknowledge it as just an Indonesian record—it must be recognized as a world record," Suprana stated.
Hindu worshippers of Indian descent perform prayers at Murugan Temple Jakarta on Sunday (Feb. 2, 2025). Photo: Investortrust/Mohammad Defrizal
A Testament to Cultural and Religious Harmony
In his speech, Suprana expressed deep admiration for the temple, stating that its significance moved him spiritually. He reflected on the profound meaning embedded in the grand structure and highlighted the contributions of two key figures behind its establishment: Hashim Djojohadikusumo and A S Kobalen. According to Suprana, their dedication has significantly enriched Indonesia’s cultural and religious diversity.
Chairman of the Advisory Board of the Sanathana Dharma Nusantara Movement (Gema Sadhana), Hashim Djojohadikusumo, accompanied by Minister of Forestry Raja Juli Antoni, speaks with Murugan Temple Chairman A.S. Kobalen after the inauguration of Murugan Temple Jakarta in Daan Mogot, Kalideres, Jakarta, on Sunday (Feb. 2, 2025). Photo: Investortrust/Mohammad Defrizal
He further noted the deep cultural ties between India and Indonesia, emphasizing that the temple serves as a powerful symbol of this historical connection. Suprana also praised A. S. Kobalen’s inspirational journey—from being a scavenger to earning a doctorate and becoming a scholar of the Bhagavad Gita.
A Symbol of Global Peace
Suprana extended his respect to Hashim Djojohadikusumo, whom he described as "the most powerful man in Indonesia," yet one who remains humble. He asserted that figures like Hashim and Kobalen have played a pivotal role in fostering Indonesia’s progress, particularly in promoting tolerance and pluralism.
Murugan Temple Jakarta, the largest Hindu temple in Southeast Asia, set to be inaugurated by President Prabowo on Sunday (Feb. 2, 2025). Photo: Investortrust/Primus Dorimulu
More than an architectural feat, Suprana emphasized that the award represents a broader mission—building global peace. He expressed hope that the temple’s message of unity could inspire war-torn nations such as Israel-Palestine, North Korea-South Korea, and Russia-Ukraine to seek reconciliation.
Purification ritual of the Deity’s House at Murugan Temple Jakarta. Photo: Investortrust/Dicki Antariksa
As he concluded his remarks, Suprana stressed that the temple is not only a source of pride for Indonesia’s Indian community but also a beacon of tolerance, diversity, and interfaith harmony. He hoped the recognition would inspire the public to uphold the values of unity and coexistence.