Vihara Dharma Sasana

Origins and Founding Period

The history of Vihara Dharma Sasana is deeply rooted in the arrival of ethnic Chinese to the Riau Islands, particularly during the golden age of the Riau-Lingga Sultanate. The Senggarang area, where this vihara is located, is one of the oldest Chinese settlements in Tanjungpinang. Historically, this complex was not built at a single point in time, but rather is an accumulation of several structures built from the 17th and 18th centuries.

The oldest building in this complex is believed to have stood for over 300 years. Initially, this place served as a small temple for migrants seeking spiritual refuge while adapting to their new environment on these islands. As the trading community in Senggarang grew, the building continued to expand, eventually forming the magnificent complex we know today as Vihara Dharma Sasana.

Architecture and Construction Details

The Vihara Dharma Sasana complex consists of four main buildings: Vihara Dharma Sasana (as the core building), Kelenteng Fu De Zheng Shen, Kelenteng Tian Hou Sheng Mu, and Kelenteng Yuan Chen Dian. Its architecture strongly reflects Southern Chinese styles, particularly influences from Fujian province (Hokkien).

The main characteristic of the buildings is the curved roof adorned with dragon and phoenix ornaments, which in Chinese cosmology symbolize the balance between masculine and feminine forces. The walls are dominated by red and gold colors, traditionally symbolizing luck and glory. One unique construction detail is the use of durable wood materials and a nail-less joinery technique on the original roof structure, which is still preserved today.

In the complex's courtyard, there are large statues of deities built in later periods, including a statue of Dewi Kwan Im and a Buddha statue tens of meters high. The presence of these statues provides a visual contrast between medieval classical architecture and modern sculptural art, creating a stunning aesthetic harmony.

Historical Significance and Important Events

Vihara Dharma Sasana holds a crucial role in the social history of Tanjungpinang. During the Dutch colonial era, the Senggarang area was an important center of economic activity. This vihara served as a community hub where various social affairs and peace resolutions between community groups were handled.

One unique historical fact is the vihara's location facing directly towards the sea. This is not without reason; according to feng shui principles, this position is believed to provide protection for fishermen and sailors traversing the waters of the Riau Islands. For centuries, this vihara has been a spiritual navigation point for merchants sailing from China to the Strait of Malacca.

Related Figures and Periods

The names of local figures from the Tan and Lim clans are closely associated with the maintenance of this vihara in the past. They were merchants who managed the gambier and pepper trade in the Riau Islands. The financial support from these merchants ensured that Vihara Dharma Sasana remained standing firm despite political upheavals on mainland China or changes in power in the Nusantara.

Periodically, this vihara experienced its golden age in the 19th century when the tin mining and gambier plantation industries reached their peak in the Riau Islands. During this period, Vihara Dharma Sasana was not only a place of prayer but also a symbol of the prosperity of the Chinese community under the inclusive Riau-Lingga Sultanate.

Preservation and Restoration Status

As one of the cultural heritage sites in Tanjungpinang City, Vihara Dharma Sasana receives special attention from both the local government and the international community. Restoration efforts are carried out very carefully to preserve the authenticity of the centuries-old wooden structures and floor tiles.

The Riau Islands Provincial Government actively promotes this site as part of the "Heritage Trail" historical tourism route. Although it has undergone several renovations, especially in the outer areas and the addition of new statues, the core temple buildings remain preserved in their original form. The use of traditional materials in roof repairs demonstrates a strong commitment to preserving historical value.

Cultural and Religious Importance

To this day, Vihara Dharma Sasana remains a center for celebrating religious holidays such as Lunar New Year, Cap Go Meh, and the birthdays of deities (Sejit). However, its importance extends beyond religious boundaries. This complex is a symbol of religious tolerance in Tanjungpinang. The local Malay community and the ethnic Chinese have lived harmoniously side-by-side in the Senggarang area for centuries, creating a strong model of coexistence.

Every corner of the vihara holds deep philosophy. For example, there are reliefs on the walls that tell stories of filial piety and moral teachings. This makes the vihara a school of life for the younger generation to learn universal ethical values.

Conclusion: A Legacy for the Future

Vihara Dharma Sasana is not just a pile of old stones and wood. It is the collective memory of the Riau Islands community about its cosmopolitan past. Amidst the modernization of Tanjungpinang City, the presence of this vihara in Senggarang reminds us that a region's identity is built through a long and diverse historical journey. Preserving Vihara Dharma Sasana means safeguarding the historical narrative of the Nusantara as a meeting point of various world civilizations. With its architectural beauty and historical depth, this site will continue to be a cultural beacon for future generations.