DENPASAR: Bali Hindu Center will be built on a 2-hectare plot near the Ganges River to allow visitors to learn more about the island's culture and religion.

Indra Udayana from Ashram Gandhi Puri said the center would serve as a cultural and religious bridge connecting Balinese and Indian people. The Ganges is considered a sacred river in Hinduism.

"Every year, millions of people visit the site for spiritual enlightenment," Udayana said.

"Therefore, it would be quite strategic to introduce Balinese culture to fellow Hindus from around the world," he said.

The development of the center was an initiative by Hindu leaders such as Pedanda (High Priest) Made Gunung, Ibu Gedong Bagoes Oka and former  Bali governors Ida Bagus Mantra and Dewa Made Beratha. — JP

The Jakarta Post, Denpasar