Though most Balinese are Hindus–Balinese Hinduism–you would spot Balinese who would also visit certain Chinese temples or kongco to pray during the celebration of Chinese New Year in Bali. I visited three different kongco that day and noticed an acculturation of Balinese Hinduism around the kongco. One of the most common examples is the usage of canang sari–a term for daily offerings in Balinese Hinduism.
I found most Balinese who visit the kongco to pray during Chinese New Year at Griya Kongco Dwipayana, Tanah Kilap, Bali. This kongco is located next to a Hindu temple called Pura Beji Tanah Kilap. Interestingly, this kongco has a Pelinggih Padmasana–a term for altar in Balinese Hinduism–Ratu Gede Pengenter Jagat Ratu Mas Rajeg Bumi. The Balinese Hindus might visit and pray at the Griya Kongco Dwipayana since both temples are nearby and well-facilitated to both religions.
The influence of Balinese Hinduism in this kongco is not limited to the altars only. It also influences the architectural aspects of the kongco. As you go around the kongco, you will find Balinese ornaments applied to the building, including batun timun, mas-masan, patra cina, patra samblung, patra sari and more.
Griya Kongco Dwipayana is not the only kongco that has Balinese Hinduism influence in Bali. A kongco located in Kuta called Dharmayana Kuta Temple also has interesting acculturations regarding the culture of prayer.
Dharmayana Kuta Temple has an altar for Sang Hyang Catur Muka (the Four-Faced Buddha) in the kongco. The Sang Hyang Catur Muka altar is surrounded by a small pond where Koi fish swim. Tirtha–a term for holy water in Balinese Hinduism–is also a part of the medium of prayer in this kongco. It is fascinating and unique that the kongco also applies it here, as tirtha is a common medium in Balinese Hindu prayer.
