One of Bali’s nightclubs may face a court summons for blasphemy after an incident that sparked outrage within the island’s Hindu community. In Indonesia, blasphemy is a serious legal matter—even the former Governor of Jakarta, Ahok, was once sentenced to prison under this law.
A video circulating on social media shows a DJ performing at a Bali nightclub, with an image of the Hindu god Shiva displayed in the background. While such visual elements may seem like a typical aesthetic choice for electronic music performances, using religious symbols in entertainment settings can be a sensitive issue.
The footage spread rapidly across social media, raising concerns among Bali’s Hindu community, who felt that one of their sacred religious icons had been used inappropriately. The incident allegedly took place at a nightclub in Tibubeneng, an area known for its nightlife.
This prompted Parisada Hindu Dharma Indonesia (PHDI) Bali, the island’s main Hindu religious authority, to prepare a legal summons for the nightclub, which they believe has disrespected Hinduism.
Putu Wirata Dwikora, Secretary of PHDI Bali, stated:
“First, we will determine who is responsible for this incident. Secondly, we have issued an open letter addressing the issue. We will not wait too long—those involved must provide explanations and clarifications immediately.”
According to PHDI Bali, this type of action is deeply offensive because Hindu deities, which are meant to be worshiped in temples and other sacred places, should not be displayed in inappropriate settings. The video from the nightclub shows a crowded venue with partygoers dancing, making the use of Lord Shiva’s image particularly disrespectful in the eyes of the religious community.
“We also want to hear why the organizers made this decision, but at this moment, we see no valid justification for it,” Wirata explained. “This is a violation of religious respect, and we see it as an act of desecration. However, we remain open to receiving their explanations.”
On the same day the video went viral, PHDI Bali issued an official statement condemning the nightclub’s actions. The letter outlines the following points:
1. PHDI Bali’s legal team expresses deep regret and strongly condemns the actions of those responsible for using the image of Lord Shiva as a stage backdrop in an entertainment venue. This act is considered offensive, blasphemous, and a violation of Hindu beliefs.
2. The nightclub management is expected to take legal, social, and cultural responsibility for displaying Lord Shiva’s sacred image in an inappropriate setting. Shiva is a sacred religious symbol meant for worship in temples, not for public entertainment shows.
3. Law enforcement authorities are urged to take this matter seriously, conducting a thorough investigation according to Indonesia’s legal framework regarding religious disrespect. Additionally, relevant organizations are called upon to consider the social impact of this incident.
4. Those responsible for displaying the image of Lord Shiva in the nightclub must provide a formal explanation and issue a public apology to the Hindu community. This must be done within a maximum period of 7 days (7 x 24 hours).
The letter has already been submitted to Bali’s General Crime Police Office and the Special Criminal Police Office, meaning the nightclub’s organizers and owners will have to act quickly to resolve the issue before it escalates into a full legal case.
Religious Sensitivity in Indonesia
In a country where the majority of the population follows a religious faith, it is crucial to handle religious symbols with care and adhere to local laws and customs. Perhaps it is best to avoid using religious imagery in entertainment settings altogether, as it is difficult to predict how certain actions might be interpreted by sensitive or vigilant members of religious communities.
This is not the first controversial religious incident in Bali. Recently, a job advertisement sparked outrage for allegedly including religious discrimination in its hiring criteria, triggering strong reactions from local residents.
As Bali continues to grow as an international tourist destination, respect for local culture and traditions remains a key factor in maintaining harmonious relations between visitors, businesses, and the island’s deeply spiritual community.
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