The once-in-five years festival is in full swing in Surabaya’s SSCC Supermall Ballroom from the 21st to the 30th of June.
A dazzling array of displays, exhibits, stalls, and interactive halls for visitors will bring to life the world of Buddhism in a country that is often taken for granted to be an Islamic nation.
Buddhism is a minority religion in Indonesia but remains a well-kept tradition thanks to the efforts of the influential Venerable Hai Tao and his approved Buddhist Education Centre and Metta School, which propagate his teachings and spirit of compassion in Indonesia.
Despite the gathering of many different Buddhist groups both large and small, this impressive festival is not known to the West and much of the world. Highlights included the arrival of Buddha relics, a rotating platform showcasing the Buddhist universe with specially sculpted figures, an exhibition of Indonesian Buddhist history from ancient times to postcolonial independence and the reassertion of Buddhist identity, and much more.
Buddhistdoor and Buddhistdoor International were invited as the only guests from Hong Kong and are determined to publicize this brilliant and rare event beyond Asian shores.
In a uniquely Indonesian setting, with English and Mandarin Chinese as second-languages (but whose speakers are versed in very different cultures to China's), Buddhistdoor International occupied a relatively small store compared to its larger, native neighbours, but punched well above its weight by attracting large crowds with free publications, postcards, bookmarks, a range of music CD's, and a blend of Hong Kong hospitality with spiritual ambience from Spiritual Director, Ven. Dhammapala.
Throughout the event, Buddhistdoor International staff are uploading photos and videos live onto Facebook and Twitter. Keep up with all the action here on our Facebook page.