Parvathi Menon

Bali: In the peaceful environs of the 17th century Taman Ayun temple in thepredominantly Hindu island of Bali, President Pratibha Devising Patil,currently on a five day state visit to the country, prayed for peaceon Saturday morning.

A traditional ritual prayer, solemn yet colourful, that includedritual dances accompanied by a ceremonial Balinese orchestra andsingers, and a puja by the head priest of the temple, was conductedfor the President.

The descendent of the Mengwi royal family, whose ancestors built the"Floating Temple" as it is called, accompanied the President.

In an impromtu chat with mediapersons at the temple, President Patilsaid "At this temple that is known for peace, serenity and prosperity,I prayed for peace in my country and for its people. I prayed for thepeace of mankind, and that good sense should prevail on those whocarry out acts of cruelty. I prayed that all religions and countriescome together to face the challenge of terrorism."

The President said that she would be discussing the issue of terrorismwith the leadership in Indonesia, a country that has faced a similarattack from terrorists in Bali a few years ago. She planted a samplingin the temple gardens of the Mangosteen in the temple garden whosefruit symbolises peace in Indonesia.