Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto on Wednesday jointly inaugurated the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)-led conservation and restoration project at the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Prambanan Temple Complex in Yogyakarta, marking a major milestone in cultural cooperation between the two countries.
The two leaders unveiled a commemorative plaque to formally launch the restoration initiative during Modi’s state visit to Indonesia. The project follows an understanding reached during President Prabowo’s visit to India in 2025when both sides agreed to explore India’s assistance in conserving the historic temple complex.
Under the agreement, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) will lead the conservation work at Prambanan, one of Southeast Asia’s most significant Hindu monuments. Built in the 9th centurythe temple complex is dedicated to the Hindu Trimurti—Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva—and stands as the largest Hindu temple complex in Indonesia.
The restoration project is expected to focus on preserving the structural integrity of the monument while restoring several damaged subsidiary shrines within the complex. According to Indonesian officials, hundreds of smaller Wara temples surrounding the main shrines remain in various stages of disrepair, making the conservation effort one of the largest heritage restoration collaborations between the two countries.
During the visit, Prime Minister Modi offered prayers at the temple and described the initiative as a reflection of the enduring civilisational bonds shared by India and Indonesia. President Prabowo also highlighted Prambanan as a symbol of the centuries-old cultural relationship between the two nations and welcomed India’s contribution to preserving Indonesia’s rich heritage.
The conservation initiative forms part of India’s broader cultural diplomacy under its Act East Policywhich seeks to strengthen ties with Southeast Asian nations through shared historical and civilisational links. The project also reinforces cooperation beyond trade and strategic affairs by promoting heritage preservation, tourism and academic collaboration.
The launch of the ASI-led restoration project is expected to deepen bilateral cultural engagement while ensuring the long-term preservation of one of the world’s most iconic Hindu temple complexes for future generations.
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