Mataram — In commemoration of its 25th Anniversary, IAHN Gde Pudja Mataram organized the second Lombok-wide Utsawa Dharmagita (UDG) through its Dharmagita Student Activity Unit. Carrying the theme “Dharmagita as a Medium to Build the Spirit of Dharma towards Jagat Kertih,” the event highlighted the role of sacred vocal traditions in strengthening religious values, cultural continuity, and character formation among the younger generation.
The opening ceremony was held at the Wantilan of Saraswati temple within the university area, beginning with a traditional Pendet dance performed by the campus Dance Unit and accompanied by gamelan music from the Tabuh Unit.
The performance symbolized reverence and hospitality, setting a solemn academic and cultural atmosphere for the proceedings.
The ceremony was attended by the Rector of IAHN Gde Pudja Mataram, members of the university leadership, representatives of Hindu organizations across Lombok, adjudicators, participants, invited guests, and members of the public.
In her report, Committee Chair Ni Kadek Manik Mustika expressed sincere appreciation to all stakeholders for their support in enabling the successful implementation of the event and conveyed apologies for any shortcomings in its organization.
Advisor of the Dharmagita Student Activity Unit, Ni Komang Wiasti, S.Pd., M.Pd.H., stated that the theme of this year’s festival aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as well as the Asta Protas of the Ministry of Religious Affairs.
She emphasized that Utsawa Dharmagita serves as a strategic medium for preserving Hindu cultural heritage, strengthening sradha and bhakti, and preparing talented youth to compete at higher levels, including national competitions.
Representing the Hindu Community Guidance Division of the Regional Office of the Ministry of Religious Affairs of West Nusa Tenggara, I Gde Suberata, S.E., S., highlighted the notable achievements of regional contestants in previous Dharmagita events and encouraged parents and communities to actively support youth participation. He also urged the Dharmagita Development Board to prepare outstanding delegates for future national competitions.
In his keynote address, Prof. Dr. Ir. I Wayan Wirata, S.Ag., S.E., M.Si., M.Pd. reaffirmed the university’s role as a center for the preservation of Hindu customs, culture, and religious values in West Nusa Tenggara. He noted that cultural and spiritual activities are integrated into the academic curriculum to produce graduates who are both intellectually competent and spiritually grounded. The event was officially declared open with the ceremonial striking of a gong.
The opening ceremony also included the presentation of certificates of appreciation to seven Pesantian groups in Lombok for their dedication to safeguarding Hindu sacred chanting traditions. This year’s competition features eight categories assessed by 24 adjudicators, with participants representing formal schools, Pasraman, and Pesantian groups from across Lombok.
The implementation of Utsawa Dharmagita II is expected to strengthen religious literacy, preserve intangible cultural heritage, and develop youth leadership rooted in Dharmic values, while contributing to the achievement of the SDGs, particularly quality education, cultural sustainability, and inclusive community development, and supporting the Asta Protas of the Ministry of Religious Affairs through the promotion of religious moderation, cultural resilience, community empowerment, and the integration of spiritual values within educational institutions.
BY: (DKS)