Bundaran HI in Central Jakarta has been decorated with lanterns and Vesak-themed installations ahead of the 2026 Vesak celebrations.
Various ornaments now line the area, including colourful lantern displays and Buddhist-inspired decorations. The preparations mark the first time Vesak celebrations have been held at Bundaran HI, bringing the observance to one of the capital’s most prominent public spaces.
The event is expected to provide a gathering place for residents and visitors to experience the Vesak atmosphere in the heart of Jakarta.
Herman Muliadi, Secretary of the DKI Jakarta chapter of the Indonesian Buddhist Association (Permabudhi), said the celebration carries a message of peace and unity.
“So, we hope that during this Vesak celebration, together with Buddhists and all residents of Jakarta, we will pray together for peace in Jakarta, Indonesia, and the world,” Herman said as quoted from Metro TV.
According to Herman, holding the event in a public space reflects the spirit of tolerance and harmony among Jakarta’s diverse communities.
Deputy Special Staff for Religious Affairs Nong Darol Mahmada said the celebration is intended for everyone visiting the area, regardless of religious background.
“We hope that this event will attract not only Jakarta residents but also those from outside Jakarta and enjoy what the Jakarta Provincial Government is offering,” Nong said.
The programme includes religious activities, cultural performances, a lantern festival, and decorative installations created for the Vesak celebration.
Buddha Statue and Lantern Installations Draw Attention
A statue of Buddha in a meditation pose has been installed on the northern side of the Bundaran HI fountain pool as part of the celebrations.
The statue, which stands nearly two metres tall, depicts Buddha seated on a lotus flower. It faces south towards the fountain area and is illuminated by yellow lighting that contrasts with the surrounding white lights.
Directly in front of the statue, organisers have set up a stage for an event titled Illumination of Jakarta: Glow of Peace, held to commemorate Vesak Day 2570 BE.
On Friday evening, visitors watched a series of performances, including traditional dance, singing, and a kulintang orchestra presenting Vesak-themed music. Jakarta Deputy
Governor Rano Karno also attended the event and delivered remarks.
Several other installations have been placed around Bundaran HI
In front of Hotel Indonesia Kempinski, organisers installed an illuminated gateway inspired by Borobudur Temple. Near the Pullman Hotel, visitors can find the Lotus Light Pathway, a tunnel-shaped lantern installation measuring approximately five metres in length.
The installation features yellow, white, and pink lanterns, with lotus flower decorations lining both sides of the structure. In Buddhist teachings, the lotus flower symbolises purity and enlightenment.
Nearby, visitors can also see Buddha Illumination Park, which features a standing Buddha statue beneath a Bodhi tree.
The Vesak installations have attracted the attention of residents visiting Bundaran HI.
On Friday evening, many people gathered around the lantern displays and decorative structures. Visitors were seen taking photographs and selfies at several installations, particularly at the Lotus Light Pathway.
Residents welcomed the Jakarta Provincial Government’s efforts to bring Vesak celebrations into one of the city’s busiest public spaces.
