Indonesia’s India Connect

President Prabowo’s remark of having Indian DNA reignited intimate debate on the two countries centuries’ old linkages. Dr Gautam Kumar Jha Indonesian President remarked at a post-Republic Day banquet hosted by Indian President Droupadi Murmu, “I have Indian DNA”. This one-liner by chief guest of seventy sixth Indian Republic Day has reignited debate on deep-rooted historical and cultural connections between India and Indonesia. This statement is not just symbolic but reflects centuries of shared heritage, mutual influence and ongoing collaboration that continue to shape relationship between these two vibrant nations. Bonds between India and Indonesia date back over 1600 years marked by spread of Hinduness and Buddhism through trade, migration and cultural exchange. King Samaratungga of Sailendra dynasty that ruled Mataram Kingdom and Srivijaya in eighth and ninth centuries exemplifies this connection. An archaeologist Devendra Nath Thakur, in his study, “Sanskrit Inscriptions of Indonesia” highlighted significance of Karangtengah inscription (824 CE). This inscription underscores foundational role of dharma (righteousness, duty or moral law) in society emphasizing its pervasiveness, purification and role in alleviating human suffering. The inscription articulates how benevolent kings like Samaratungga leveraged dharma to legitimize their rule and foster societal harmony. By promoting dharma, these rulers not only reinforced their authority but ensured ethical governance, contributing to longevity and prosperity of their kingdoms. This historical perspective underscores the enduring relevance of dharma in governance and societal well-being, laying a strong foundation for intimate cultural exchanges that followed. From early centuries, Hindu and Buddhist kings governed large parts of present-day Indonesia spreading Bharatiya (Indian) knowledge and traditions. This long span of exchanges left an indelible mark on Indonesian society, evident in education curriculum where 70 per cent of history taught in high secondary schools focuses on Hindu -Buddhist period and its profound influence. Such deep cultural integration makes Indonesian President’s remark on having Indian DNA both a testament to historic ties and reflection of shared heritage. Assertion by Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto that he has Indian lineage is not an isolated off the cuff remark. It underscores deep historical and cultural entanglements between India and Southeast Asia. This is not just the case in Indonesia, though; genetic, cultural and migratory facts have all clearly demonstrated the universal resonance of Indian DNA throughout Europe and Western world. The Roma, who have roots in northwest India, are an acknowledged example. The Roma migrated from India about 1500 years ago, as determined by genetic research including studies published by Nature and Cell. They carry unique markers associated with their Indian ancestry. This link is further supported by linguistic and cultural continuity between Indian and Roma traditions. Genetic and intellectual exchanges between Indian and European civilizations were made straightforward by Indo-Greek experiences, especially those that occurred during Alexander’s invasion of Indian subcontinent (4th century BCE) and Greco-Bactrian and Kushan empires that followed. Archaeological proof includes combination of Indian and Greek iconography in Gandharan art. Beyond traditional migration accounts, more recent genetic research discoveries by Harvard geneticist David Reich show that Indian ancestry has made substantial contribution to global populations. These examples demonstrate how Indian DNA influenced by historical, economic and geopolitical factors has had long-lasting impact on the world highlighting importance of Subianto’s statement in a larger historical and scientific context. During his campaign, President Prabowo emphasized India’s development model, signalling a keen interest in deeper collaboration. This aligns perfectly with eagerness of both Indian and Indonesian stakeholders to elevate bilateral ties. Trade between India and Indonesia has surged beyond US $ 30 billion, reflecting robust economic engagement. In the defence sector, significant progress include negotiations for BrahMos missile system, joint military exercises and plans for joint manufacturing and maintenance of advanced fighter jets like Rafales. Strategic areas such as maritime security and training of Indonesian military personnel are also being prioritized. President Prabowo announced that high-profile Indonesian armed forces personnel will visit India in coming weeks to implement these agreements. This move not only signifies trust but measures that both nations are taking to enhance strategic partnership. Focus on traditional medicine is something to write home about. Integration of Ayurveda with Indonesia’s traditional practices, Jamu, represents a fusion of ancient wisdom and modern healthcare. The meeting on Saturday established a trusted platform for both countries to collaborate for mutual benefit, highlighting importance of preserving and promoting traditional knowledge systems in contemporary settings. India and Indonesia share a rich socio-cultural heritage with many common social traits still evident today. Indonesians are renowned for their humility and politeness, qualities that complement India’s vibrant and diverse culture. While India has made significant advancements in higher education, technology, defence, healthcare, and IT, Indonesia excels in the services sector, agro-products and natural resources, including marine biodiversity. There is substantial potential for collaboration in special research funding focused on shared heritage which can further strengthen bilateral ties. By leveraging each other’s strengths, both countries can address gaps and create a symbiotic relationship. Additionally, Indonesia’s inclusion in BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation) will help establish a familial platform, fostering deeper cooperation and integration within the region. Historical interactions between India and Indonesia have fostered unique blend of cultural and traditional practices. Institutions like National Medicinal Plant Board (NMPB) in India, established in 2000 under Ministry of Ayush play pivotal role in promoting medicinal plant conservation and sustainable use. Collaboration between Indian and Indonesian institutions can enhance the preservation and cultivation of medicinal plants, supporting both traditional medicine systems. Post-Covid-19, demand for herbal products has risen globally, driven by concerns about antibiotic resistance and safety of synthetic drugs. Both India and Indonesia are poised to capitalize on this trend by promoting traditional medicine through structured frameworks and bilateral agreements. Initiatives like India-Indonesia Bio-Resource Consortium (IIBC) focus on foundational development, advanced research and drug development, integrating traditional knowledge with modern scientific advancements. Indonesian President’s remark on his Indian DNA,” encapsulates centuries of intertwined histories. From reign of King Samaratungga to contemporary strategic partnerships, relationship between these two nations is characterized by mutual respect, cultural affinity

Geopolitics

1.04K

Akhand Bharat is underlying reality in the mural

Indo-Nepalese linkages have depth to handle contentious border issues, illicit drug deals, jihadist madrasas springing up big time! Vinod Kumar Shukla Traces of Indian culture and civilization go beyond Afghanistan in the west and Indonesia in South East Asia. More facts and revelations have been collated over time due to concerted research about length, breadth and its longevity. But myopic Indian media has the tendency of making an issue out of nothing and question anything and everything that glorifies Indian civilization. It’s all done not to scrutinize facts but put Indian government in the dock. Interestingly enough, self-proclaimed holier than thou Indian media failed to see Sengol as being integral to India’s millennium old cultural voyage and its handing over to Jawahar Lal Nehru in 1947 was termed fake history. Select Indian and global media outlets get divine and display false intellect in interpreting 2300-year-old depiction in a mural that’s part of the newly opened Parliament. This has given enough cannon fodder to China and Pakistan. India’s External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Arindam Bagchi was straight when he described the mural as an artwork that depicted the spread of Ashokan Empire. Bagchi took the position, “The mural in question depicts the spread of Ashokan Empire and the idea of responsible and people-oriented governance that he [Ashoka] adopted and propagated.” Bagchi rejected conjectures that the issue figured in bilateral talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Nepalese counterpart Pushpa Kamal Dahal popularly known as ‘Prachanda’ who was on a bilateral visit to New Delhi last week. But, India’s western and northern neighbours seized upon the opportunity to make mountain out of a molehill. Nepal’s opposition parties, some of them aligned with Chinese think tanks and Chinese Communist Party made every effort to cause mayhem on phone screens, social media handles and hijack the conversation away from Indo-Nepal issues. Apparent objections were on depiction of Lumbini, Uttarapath, Purushpur and Taxila on the mural in question as part of India’s Akhand Bharat plan. Social media was flooded with messages that opposition leaders asked the visiting Prime Minister ‘Prachanda’ to take up the issue with India to get the mural removed from Parliament. But, India insisted that the issue did not figure in bilateral discussion. Big question however remains. Is it not true that India and Pakistan were part of Indus (Sindhu) Water Treaty depicted in the mural reflecting India’s civilizational identity as Bharat? Can Indian forget Takshshila where Vishnugupta (Chanakya) was a teacher and assisted Chandragupta, Ashoka’s grandfather in uniting India? Lumbini where Gautam Buddha was born is Sakya Muni for many in India emphasising his Sakya lineage. And, this region formed one of the ten republics of [Akhand] Bharat during sixth century BC. No political boundary whatsoever was strong enough to restrict Akhand Bharat that had unique lifestyle and behaviour of every civilizational Indian. Reference to Uttarapath is as old as Panini’s Ashtadhyayi where he listed the kingdoms along ‘Uttarapathenahritam’. Pakistan can ignore these facts and consider its history to have begun with 1947 and remain in denial mode for cultural links with India. Pakistan’s tilt towards Arabic nations may not help as the latter view Islamabad with deep disdain. On the parallel, handful of Nepalese leaders denying this cultural unity is not only strange but unfortunate as its cultural connects with India is inseparable and alienated. When Indian Prime Minister Modi visited Lumbini on May 16 last year on birth anniversary of Mahatma Buddha, he inaugurated Kushinagar International Airport. It was meant to bring to focus cultural integration. Kushinagar airport would help tourists and pilgrims to get easy access to Lumbini contrary to misinformation campaign that India is on some imaginary expansionist mission. Lumbini and Kushinagar are the places where Mahatma Budhdha took birth and died respectively. Further, four-lane Ram Janaki path is being built from Ayodhya to Janakpur. A Buddhist circuit is drawn connecting Gaya, Sarnath, Kushinagar and Lumbini. Modi’s Lok Sabha constituency Varanasi has been an important seat of pilgrimage for Lord Shiva’s devotees. Also, Kashi has been the seat of learning and place of worship for successive Prime Ministers and Nepal’s royals. They were also associated with Guru Gorakhnath in Gorakhpur bordering Nepal. Ram Van Gaman Path Marg too has Nepal and Sri Lankan linkages while Krishna corridor would connect many cities. Cultural connect transcends political boundaries as former Maoist Guerrilla Prachanda appears to have overcome the dichotomy of his faith and political ideology when he performed Rudrabhishek at Mahakaleshwar Temple in Ujjain. He gifted loads of Rudraksha beads to the temple. What binds India and Nepal is their Hindu identity, so each other’s security concerns are of paramount importance. Therefore, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval’s meeting with the Nepalese Prime Minister was certainly not a courtesy call. Issues like mushrooming Madarsas along Indo-Nepalese border, contraband trade, outlaws committing crime and escaping into Nepal apart from ISI operatives making a foothold on Nepalese soil have reportedly figured in the discussions. There is no denying that border issues continue to be in contention especially Kalapani, Lipulekh and Limpiyadhura areas that Nepal claims to be part of its territory. Both sides seem to agree that there’s enough depth in their relationships to handle these issues. But, one cannot ignore the Chinese Communist Party’s continued needling in Indo-Nepalese affairs. After mishandling1989 blockade aggravated minor differences between the two countries into distrust, China played an iniquitous role. Further, comprehensive Peace Accord in 2006 leading to end of monarchy and general elections, the Constituent Assembly declared Nepal a Federal Democratic Republic that had Chinese footprint all over. On the other hand, what went wrong for India was the erstwhile Manmohan Singh government outsourcing its Nepal policy to Communist Party of India – Marxist that had its allegiance to China. Whenever India and Nepal attempted at ironing out differences, China worked at torpedoing plans to expand its influence in South Asia. Fanning Pahadi versus Madheshi divide in Nepal was its favourite game plan. China supplied oil and arms during 1988-89 to disturb the delicate

Blog Post

Indonesia’s India Connect

Akhand Bharat is underlying reality in the mural