Ratu Subandar Temple at Besakih
The
Ratu Subandar Temple at Besakih, Karangasem, is located at the upper
three stairs from the Penataran Agung Besakih. Local temple priests
Mangku Cik, Gusti Mangku Suputra and Jero Mangku Ugu met on the
sidelines of serving the pilgrims not long ago. They said that 99
percent of the pilgrims worshipping at the temple were businessmen or
traders. Mangku Cik conveyed that the Ratu Subandar Temple had the same
function as Melanting Temple. The latter temple of swagina or profession
is located above the market. Especially at Besakih, there was also the
Ratu Subandar Temple.Essentially, there are two shrines at this temple. One shrine is located on the left namely the Ratu Ulang Alu. The deity abiding and adored at the shrine is illuminating the pengalu or peddlers. To the right side of this shrine is the shrine of Ratu Ayu Subandar. She is adored by entrepreneurs or traders. Both shrines apply the Balinese architectural style. However, the hallmark of Chinese culture or influence is very dominant in which the accessories and fabrics of the shrines are all in red showing typical Chinese attibutes. Similarly, each corner is also embellished with red lantern ornaments.
The local temple priests are not certain about the history of the Ratu Subandar Temple in the upper eastern part of the Penataran Agung. This temple is located above the northern corner of Penataran Agung. It shows the Chinese influence brought by traders or merchants (Subandar) since the seventh century in the Srivijaya era and which continued through to the Majapahit era. It is estimated that the Chinese traders have influenced Balinese culture and economy since ancient times, where many interactions occurred between the local community and Chinese merchants, which is why both these communities worship Ida Ratu Ayu Subandar at Besakih Temple. Mangku Cik said the piodalan or temple anniversary of this temple fell on Galungan, Buda Kliwon Dungulan.http://bali-travelnews.com
