Demak Kingdom, Central Java, Indonesia

Demak is a region given by Brawijaya, notably in Glagah Wangi. This region evolved abd formed a strong power. Sunan or Saints favored the development of Demak Bintoro. raden patah or Jin Bun was the son of Brawijaya, Majapahit king. Demak was a harbor city in Java so it flourished to be a trade city and the center of Islam in Java. Demak used this opportunity to release from Majapahit. After Majapahit fell, Demak became Islam kingdom led by Raden Patah or Sultan Alam Akbar Al-Fatah, or Senopati Jimbun Ngabdurrahman Panembahan palembang Sayidin Panatagama. As suggested by Sunan Ampel, he became kign od Demak. Sunan Ampel was the teacher of Raden Patah one of prominent member of Walisongo.

Demak attacked Majapahit was initiated by the puwer of Majapahit under Girindrawardhana who had no right of the throne. Raden Patah had the right more than him as he was the son of Brawijaya. Raden Patah gathered power and attacked Majapahit and ruled over Majapahit. But in 1478, Majapahit was not burned down and destroyed. Demak kingdom was free and independence. Majapahit became a subordinate region of Demak and evolved. Economically, Demak was a maritime kingdom. Demak location was strategic that made Demak flourished quickly. Demak location was on coastal and it has fertile farms with lush teak forest.

Since 1509, Adipati Unus, son of Raden Patah was prepared to attack Malaka. But in 1511 Portugese did that earlier. Still, Adipati Unus did not cancel his will, and in 1512 Demak sent fleet to Malaka. Landed at Malaka coast, the fleet was attacked by Portuguese cannon favored by Sultan Mahmud son in law, Sultan Abdullah, king from Kampar.  The second assault was in 1521 by Pangeran Sabrang Lor or Adipati Unus but it failed again.

In 1521 Adipati Unus died suddenly, and caused Demak falter for who would be the predecessor of Raden patah if Adipati Unus died. According to serat Kanda, Raden Patah had 4 sons. Adipati Unus and Trenggana were his children with his second wife,  Kanduruhan was from his second wife and from third wife was Kikin. Raden Kanduruhan was older than Trenggana that triggered brothers war. Seeing this situation, Girindrawardhana gave opportunity to Majapahit to be the authority. But Sultan Trenggana sent Sunan Gunung Jati to attack Majapahit in 1527. Girindrawardhana dies and there was no more Majapahit and varnished in the end.

Demak Civil war was initially caused by the seath of the oldest son of Raden patah, Adipati Unus, the royal prince. The throne became bone of contention among Raden Patah’s sons. The rivalry was very fierce between Sultan Trenggana and Pangeran Seda Lepen (Kikin). Finally, Demak was led by Trenggana and ordered his son Prawoto to kill Seda Lepen. In Sultan Trenggana’s period (152101546), Demak was in its glorious day and they overtook West Java and East Java. Demak built fortress on the western region, in Cirebon. Sultan Cirebon later detached his kingdom from Demak and became Pajang sultanate.

Sultan Trenggana had two sons and four daughters. The first daughter married to Pangeran Langgar, the second was son, Sunan Prawoto, the third child was a daughter married to Kalinyamat, the fourth child was a daughter married to prince from Cirebon, and the fifth child was a daughter married to Jaka Tingkir and the last son was Pangeran Timur.

Aryo Penangsang was instigated to take revenge for his father death Raden Kikin  or Pangeran Sedo Lepen. Arya Penangsang killed Sunan Parwoto, overtook Demak throne. IN 1546 after the death of Sultan Trenggana died in sudden, his son Sunan Prawoto went to throne and became the third king of Demak. Arya Penangsang then order his men to attack Demak when Demak fleet was not there, as the fleet was sent to eastern of Indonesia. With least effort, Arya Penangsang burned Demak down and only left mosque and chinese temple. Demak troop that was lost then escaped to Semarang, still Arya Penangsang men after them. Sunan Prawoto died in battle, but his death did not end the conflict. As later, Jaka Tingkir moved Demak to Pajang. Jaka Tingkir was the son of Ki Ageng Pengging, regent of Majapahit, located in Surakarta.

In babad tanah jawi or java chronicle, Arya Penangsang killed Sunan Prawoto and Pangeran Kalinyamat, and only Jaka Tingkir left alive. Kalinyamat death made widow of Kalinyamat to make contest that whoever could kill Arya Penangsang would be awarded with her wealth and became her husband. Jaka Tingkir assisted by Ki Ageng Panjawi and Ki Ageng Pemanahan could kill Arya Penangsang. Ki Ageng Panjawi was awarded with Pati region and Ki Ageng Pemanahan was awarded with Mataram region.

Jin Bun dynasty ended in 1546, only for 68 years. And later Pajang sultanate established on the west of current Surakarta city. The civil war ended Demak sultanate in Java. Jaka Tingkir moved Demak to Pajang.

Mataram Kuno (Old Mataram) Kingdom or Medang Kingdom, Central Java, Indonesia

History of Medang Kingdom or more popular as Old Mataram was very confusing. This is due to shortage of source to reveal information about this kingdom. Sanjaya was the founding father of the kingdom but there was no source about how he built the kingdom. There were few versions about Sanjaya pedigree . Old Mataram was reigned by 2 dynasties, Sanjaya and Syailendra.

SANJAYA DYNASTY
Sanjaya dynasty is dynasty that follow Hindu religion, known as the founding father of Medang Kingdom (Old Mataram). This dynasty was  Hindu Siva believer with Kunjaradari (India) as its Mecca. This dynasty was born in 732 and there was not much information about this dynasty.

Kings of Sanjaya Dynasty:

1.King Sanjaya
King Sanjaya was the first Mataram king according to Mantyasih inscription issued by Maharaja Dyah Balitung date back 907. Sanjaya himself made an inscription on 6 October 732 about the erection of a lingga and a temple to worship Siva on a hill. The temple is now only ruins on Gunung Wukir near Kedu. Canggal inscription also tells that before Sanjaya became king there was another king, King Sanna, that ruled Java wisely. After king Sanna died, Sanjaya, son of Sannaha (Sanna’s sister) became the nest king and Java became peaceful again.

Canggal inscription does not mention name of Sanna’s / Sanjaya’s kingdom. While Mantyasih inscription mentiones Sanjaya as the first king of Medang, while Sanna is not mentioned at all. Probably Sanna was not the king of Medang. It is possible that Sanjaya inherited a different kingdom. This could be like in the end of 13th century when Raden Wijaya inherited Kertanegara throne, but he built himself a new kingdom, Majapahit.

In the period of Medang Kingdom, there was a tradition to put old position to Maharaja title. For instance, king that issued Mantyasih inscription (907) was Sri Maharaja Rakai Watukura Dyah Balitung Dharmodaya Mahasambu. It means that his name was Dyah Balitung, before coronation he was the regent of Watukura.

Sanjaya title was Rakai Mataram, the king of Sanjaya. It is estimated that when King Sanna reigned, Sanjaya was the regent of Mataram (currently Yogyakarta). Mataram was probably the capital when Sanjaya established Medang Kingdom. Thats why Medang Kingdom known as Mataram Kingdom. In the era of Dyah Balitung, the capital of Medang was moved to Poh Pitu. When and how Medang was built was not known. One of Sanjaya descendant, Mpu Daksa introduced the used of  Sanjayawarsa or Sanjaya calendar. According to historian analysis, year 1 Sanjaya calendar was in 717. There were two analysis: 717 was the coronation of Sanjaya, or the birth of Sanjaya.

If Sanjaya’s coronation was in 717,then Canggal inscription (732) was issued when Medang Kingdom built for 15 years. And if 717 was the birth of Sanjaya, then Canggal inscription was issued when Sanjaya was 15 years and already became king. This means that Sanna promoted his nephew when he was child as Jayanegara in Majapahit era.

2.Rakai Pikatan
Rakai Pikatan was the prince of Sanjaya dynasty and married to Pramodhawardhani (833-856), the daughter of Syailendra’s daughter (King Samaratungga’s daughter) . Since then Sanjaya that was Hinduism dominated Mataram, replaced with Buddhism. Rakai Pikatan defeated King Balaputradewa in 850, and Sanjaya became the only ruler of Mataram.

Wantil inscription was also known as Siwagreha inscription issued in 12 Novemner 856. This inscription mentioned the erection of Mamratipura palace, Siwagreha sacred building or translated as Siva temple. According to characteristics delineates in that inscription, Siva Temple resembles one of main temples in Candi Prambanan. Therefore the main temple in the complex was built by Rakai Pikatan and other temples possibly were built by the next kings.

3.Rakai Kayuwangi
It was not correct considering that Rakai Kayuwangi was the king of Mataram as according to Wantil inscription, in that period, Medang Kingdom palace was not in Mataram anymore, but it had been moved by Rakai Pikatan to Mamrati or Mamratipura. Rakai Kayuwangi was the youngest son of Rakai Pikatan from his queen Pramodhawardhani. He was born with name Dyah Lokapala (in Wantil inscription) or Mpu Lokapala (in Argapura inscription).

According to Wantil / Siwagreha inscription, date back 12 November 856, Syah Lokapala succeeded his father, Sang Jatiningrat (Rakai Pikatan title as Brahmana). Rakai Pikatan chose his youngest son as his predecessor was because of his service to defeat his enemy at Ratu Baka hill.

Popular theory mentioned that the name of Rakai Pikatan enemy was Balaputradewa for Wantil inscription mentioned Walaputra term. Yet, Buchari, Historian could not find Balaputradewa name mentioned in Ratu Boko Hill, instead of Rakai Walaing Mpu Kumbhayoni. Walaputra means youngest son, the nickname of Dyah Lokapala that defeated his father’s enemy.

Therefore in the end Rakai Pikatan period there was Rakai Walaing Mpu Kumnhayoni rebellion who said that he was the descendant of Sanjaya, the founder of Medang. The rebellion was then silenced by Rakai Kayuwangi Dyah Lokapala or Walaputra, that people supported him for throne. Rakai Walaing theory answers popular theory about bothers war between Balaputradewa against Pramodhawardhani and Rakai Pikatan after Samaratungga dies.

4.Rakai Watuhumalang
According to king list of Medang Kingdom in Mantyasih inscription, Rakai Watuhumalang became the 8th king and succeeded Rakai Kayuwangi. The inscription was issued in 907 by Dyah Balitung, king reigned after Rakai Watuhumalang.Rakai Watuhumalang did not leave any inscription with his name carved. While Panunggalan inscription dated back 19 November 896 mentioned that there was a figure, Sang Watuhumalang Mpu Teguh, but his title was not Maharaja, instead of haji (king subordinate).

There is no further information wether Mpu Teguh was also Rakai Watuhumalang. If both were the same person then Rakai Watuhumalang only reigned in such a short period. In 896 he was a subordinate king and then in 899 (Telahap Inscription) Dyah Balitung was the king of Medang Mataram.

5.Rakai Watukura Dyah Balitung
Dyah Balitung became king as he married the daughter of previous king. It is possible that the king was Rakai Watuhumalang that according to Mantyasih inscription, he reigned before Balitung. And possibly Dyah Balitung could be king also because the king also had a son, Mpu Daksa (Telahap inscription). Other reason was because maybe Medang Kingdom was on separation threat after Rakai Kayuwangi died. Manggu Antan inscription was issued by Maharaja Rakai Gurunwangi and Poh Dulur inscription issued by Rakai Limus Dyah Dewendra.

Possibly, Dyah balitung was the son in law of Rakai Watuhumalang (king of Medang that succeeded Rakai Kayuwangi), as he could defeate Rakai Gurunwangi and Rakai Limus to accept the sole power in Medang. Therefore, after Rakai Watuhumalang died, people vote for Balitung to be king instead of Mpu Daksa, the son of the king.

In the period of Dyah Balitung, Medang palace was not located in Mataram or Mamrati, but moved to Poh Pitu, Yawapura Palace. This was possibly because Mamratipura palace (that was built by Rakai Pikatan) was broken for war between Rakai Kayuwangi against Rakai Gurunwangi. The oldest found inscription signed by Balitung is Telahap inscription dated back 11 September 899. This could be not the first inscription made by Balitung, that perhaps Balitung had reigned already before 899.

Watukura inscription dated  back 27 July 902. This inscription was the oldest inscription mentioning the position of Rakryan Kanuruhan, similar to prime minister. While Rarkryan Mahapatih in Balitung period was the royal prince, Mpu Daksa.

Telang inscription from 11 January 904 was about construction of a compound called Paparuhuan led by Rakai Welar Mpu Sudarsana on the bank of Bengawan Solo River. Balitung did not levy tax to Paparahuan and vicinity and banned the people to charge whoever cross the river.

Poh Pitu inscription was from 17 July 905, about tax free at Poh village as this village was assigned to take care of Sang Hyang Caitya shrine and Silunglung  from previous king buried in Pastika, Rakai Pikatan. This king was the grandfather of Mpu Daksa.

Kubu-kubu inscription dated back 17 October 905 was about Kubu-kubu village gift to Rakryan Hujung Dyah Mangarak and Rakryan Matuha Dyah Majawuntan as both had led conquering Bantan region. Few historian translated Bantan as the synonym of Bali. Bantan means victim, while Bali means offering or tribute.

Mantyasih inscription dated back 11 April 907 was about awards given to 5 officials for their service to guard the wedding of Dyah Balitung. In this inscription also mentioned kings of Medang that reigned previously. In 907 Dyah Balitung also gave Rukan village as a gift to his grandmmother Rakryan Sanjiwana for taking care of shrine in Limwung.

6.Mpu Daksa
Mpu Daksa went to throne to replace Dyah Balitung, his brother in law. This relative relations was proven as Daksa was often called with wife of Balitung respectively in few inscription. Information from Tang Dynasty mentions ‘Tat So Kan Hiung’ means Daksa, the brave king’s brother.

Dyah Balitung was estimated went to throne after married the previous king’s daughter, that automatically Mpu Daksa was known as royal prince. Possibly that the king was Rakai Watuhumalang, reigned before Balitung according to Mantyasih inscription. As in Telahap inscription, Mpu Daksa was the grandson of Rakryan Watan Mpu tamer, the wife of a king buried in pastika, Rakai Pikatan. Therefore, Daksa was the grandson of Rakai Pikatan. Plaosan inscription issued Rakai Pikatan mentions Sang Kalungwarak Mpu Daksa.

7.Rakai Layang Dyah Tulodhong
Dyah Tulodhong was considered to be a king after Mpu Daksa. In Ritihang inscription issued by Mpu Daksa, there was a person, Rakryan Layang, and real name was not readable. Characteristically, Rakryan Layang was a woman with high position, so it was impossible that she was Dyah Tulodhong. Possibly Rakryan Layang was the daughter of Mpu Daksa. Dyah Tulodhong married her that he got title as Rakai Layang, even went to throne replaced her father in law, Mpu Daksa.

In Lintakan inscription, Dyah Tulodhong was the son of someone buried in Turu Mangambil. Lintakan inscription date back 12 July 919, the oldest inscription found to mention Tulodhong as king. When he reigned, his Rakryan Mapatih Hino was Mpu Ketuwijaya, and his title was Sri Ketudhara Manimantaprabha Prabhusakti. While the Rakryan Halu was Mpu Sindok.

Harinjing Inscription dated back 19 September 921 was about awarding12 Bhagawanta Bhari’s children that were all over. Bhagawanta Bhari was a figure known for his service to built dam to avoid flood. They were also awarded by the previous king. Inscription of children of Bhagawanta Bhari was renewed in 7 March 927 where they were awarded with Culanggi village as sima swatantra (free tax land). This renewal was done by Rakai Hini Mpu Ketuwijaya, who was suggested by Rakai Sumba as Sang Pamgat Momahuma.

8.Rakai Sumba Dyah Wawa
Dyah Wawa went to throne replacing Dyah Tulodhong. Rakai Sumba was recorded in Culanggi inscription dated back 7 March 927, as Sang Pamgat Momahumah, some kind of court official. Beside entitled as Rakai Sumba, Dyah Wawa was also entitled as Rakai Pangkaja. Dyah Wawa has right to throne of Dyah Tulodhong. Historian Boechari considered that Dyah Wawa did coup d’etat to get to throne of Medang kingdom.

The coup seems to be executed by Dyah Wawa with favor of Mpu Sindok who was promoted as Rakryan Mapatih Hino. In Dyah Tulodhong, Mpu Sindok was Rakryan Halu, while Rakai Hino position was Mpu Ketuwijaya.  Mpu Wawa left Sangguran inscription dated back 2 August 928 about assigning Sangguran village as sima swatantra (fee tax land) and local participated to take care of shrine in Kajurugusalyan.

 

Kediri Kingdom, East Java, Indonesia

Kediri Kingdom is a big kingdom in East Java and established in 12th century. This kingdom was part of old Mataram (Hindu Mataram). The capital was on the bank of Brantas River which was a sailing route in that period.

Kediri KIngdom was formed from Kataram Kingdom that was split by King Airlangga (1000-1049). This was due to avoiding conflict between his harems sons. There was no detail evidence how many parts Mataram Kingdomdevided. In a chronicle was written that it was devided into 4 parts. But further  only known two kingdoms, Kediri or Panjalu and Jenggala. Samarawijaya as the legal heir of the kingdom got the old capital, Dahanaputra and his kingdom was then changed to be Pangjalu or known as Kediri.

Kediri evolved and became great kingdom with capital was in Daha while Jenggala was getting unpopular. It is estimated that Jenggala was conquered by Kediri. Nevertheless, Jenggal disappeared because there was no inscription left or not-yet-found inscription made by Jenggala. Kediri Kingdom fell when King Kertajaya (1185-1222) had conflict with a priest and this situation was used by Tunggul Ametung.

But later Tunggul Ametung was murdered by Ken Arok and on the former Kediri, Ken Arok built Singasari Kingdom. When Singasari was reigned by Kertanegara (1268-1292), KIng of Kediri co-op with Madura Regent and attacked Kertanegara in 1292. Jayakatwang rebuilt Kediri.

After defeating Kertanegara, Kediri resurge under Jayakatwang but then defeated by Raden Wijaya, the nephew of King Kertanegara, with the help of Kubilai Khan Troop. Mongol came to Java to revenge King Kertanegara that hurt Kubilai Khan messenger.

Govenment system of Kediri is like other past kingdoms in Java, there were numerous power switches.

1.Shri Jayawarsa Digjaya Shastraprabhu
He was the first king of Kediri according inscription from date back 1104. He called himself as the manifestation of Wisnu.

2.Kameshwara
Id the second king of Kediri and known as  Sri Maharajarake Sirikan Shri Kameshwara Sakalabhuwanatushtikarana Sarwwaniwaryyawiryya Parakrama Digjayottunggadewa, but more popular as Kameshwara I (1115 – 1130 ). Kediri badge was skull with tusks known as Candrakapala. In his period, Mpu Darmaja wrote Samaradana, where king was praised as the manifestation of god of Kama, and that the capital was admired by the whole world, called Dahana. His queen was Shri Kirana from Jenggala.

3.Jayabaya
Is the 3rd king of Kediri, known as Shri Maharaja Shri Kroncarryadipa Handabhuwanapalaka Parakramanindita Digjayotunggadewanama Shri Gandra.. HIs inscription was from date back i181. He was the most popular king of Kediri and brought Kediri to its glorious days. He was a politic leader and popular for his prophecies that were collected in a book called Jongko Joyoboyo. King Jayabaya supported culture, arts, spiritual and material.

4.Prabu Sarwaswera
As  a religious king and respected culture, King Sarwaswera held his principal ‘TAT WAM ASI’, means ‘that is you’ or all creatures was you. His life goal was to mokhsa.

5.Prabu Kroncharyadipa
The meaning of his name is fortress of truth, the king was always true and fair to his people. As a religious king, he had principal SAD KAMA MURKA means ‘6 enemies inside human’. They are kroda (anger), moha (confusion), kama (lust), loba (greed), mada (drunk), masarya (jealousy).

6.Srengga Kertajaya
Srengga Kertajaya was a hard worker, when he reigned his people lived in peace, prosperous.

7. Kertajaya
Kertajaya was the last king of Kediri. He was very caring to his people and known for his 4 principles : darma, arta, kama, moksa.

Kediri fell because of conflict with Brahmana. They considered Kertajaya broke religion for people were asked to worship him as god. Brahmana asked protection from Ken Arok, Timapel akuwu. In 1222, in Ganter village,  Ken Arok defeated Kertajaya, and marked the end of Kediri Kingdom.

Majapahit Empire: Gigantic Kingdom in East Java, Indonesia

Majapahit is one of the biggest kingdom existed in Indonesia from 1293 to 1500s. The glorious day of Majapahit was in the priod of Hayam Wuruk (1350-1389). Majapahit Kingdom was located ay Tarik forest nearby Brantas River, Mojokerto, East Java. Majapahit was the last Hindu Kingdom ruled over nusantara and considered as one of the biggest kingdoms in Indonesia history. Its area consisted of Java, Sumatera, Semenanjung Malaya, to Eastern part of Indonesia though this opinion is still debated.

Majapahit history can be traced from its kings.

Raden Wijaya (1293-1309)
He was the descendant of Singasari king. When Singasari was attacked by Jayakatwang from Kediri, Raden Wijaya could escape to Madura Island. He asked Wiraraja help and Wiraraja suggested him to return to Kediri, and pretend to work for Jayakatwang. To prove his will, he was ready to open Tarik forest, located nearby Sidoarjo, to be a amusement forest for Jayakatwang whow as keen to hunt. Raden Wijaya was helped by Madurese, Wiraraja men, to open the forest and built a village called Majapahit.
In 1293, Mongol troop came to punish Kertanegara that hurt Kubilai Khan’s messenger in 1289. Raden Wijaya said that he, as the heir of Kertanegara would surrender if he was helped by Mongol troop to get freedom from Jayakatwang. Mongol and Majapahit assault Kediri and Jayakatwang could be defeated. Afterwards, Majapahit cast out Mongol troop from Java.
According to Kidung Panji Wijayakusuma, and Harsawijaya, Mongol troop was invited by Wiraraja to help Raden Wijaya to defeat Kadiri, for 2 princesses for Kubilai Khan. Raden Wijaya was the first king of Majapahit since 1293. From Kudadu inscription from date back 1294, Aria Wiraraja was known with title Rakyan Mantri Arja Wiraraja Makapramuka. In Penanggungan inscription date back 1296, Wiraraja was not found anymore. It was possibly because in 1295, one of Wiraraja sons, Ranggalawe rebelled and killed. Arya Wiraraja was hurt by his son death and the he resigned from his position, and asked Raden Wijaya to fulfill his promise for half of Majapahit to him. Raden Wijaya granted his request, and Wiraraja ruled over east part of Majapahit with capital in Lumajang.
Raden Wijaya was entitled as Kertarajasa Jayawardhana in 1294. Majapahit derives from fruit name found when Raden Wijaya opened Tarik forest. The fruit name was Maja and it taste bitter (pahit in Javanese).

Jayanegara (1309-1328)
Raden Wijaya was succeeded by his son, Kalagemet. Kalagemet was the son of Raden Wijaya with Malay princess Dara Petak. He ruled Majapahit with name Sri Jayanegara and when he ruled there were numerous rebellions, such as Ranggalawe, Sora, Nambi and Kuti.
Kuti Rebellionw  was very dangerous that Jayanegara escaped to Badander. Jayanegara was guarded by Bayangkari squad and led by Gajah Mada. King could escaped and for quality of Gajah Mada troop, Jayanegara could get his throne again. For his service, Gajah Mada was promoted as Regent in Kahuripan. 2 years later Gajah Mada became Regent in Dah.

Tribuwanatunggadewi (1328-1350)
Jayanegara ruled Majaphit until 1328, and he passed away without son to be his predecessor. He was supposed to be succeeded by Rajapatni, Buta Rajapatni was a monk then he gave the throne to her daughter Sri Gitarja.
Sri Gitarja was known as Tribuwana Tunggadewi Jayawisnuwardhani after she reigned. Gajah Mada was promoted as prime minister to replace Arya Tadah who was sick. Gajahmada was ordered to solve Sadeng rebellion and he was succeed. When Gajahmada was sworn as prime minister, he vowed that he would unify Nusantara or known as Sumpah (vow) Palapa. In that period, nusantara referred to Hasta Dwipa Nusantara (8 Islands); Malaka, Sumatera, Java, Kalimantan, Sulawesi, Sunda Kecil/ Nusa Tenggara, Moluccas and Irian (Gurun).
For his goal, Gajah Mada built strong naval fleet and Majapahit was known as Maritime Kingdom. The admiral of the troop was Empu Nala. Majapahit could conquer Dompo in 1340 and Bali in 1343.
Here is Sumpah Palapa sworn by Gajah Mada “Sira Gajah Mada pepatih amugkubumi tan ayun amukita palapa, sira Gajah Mada, lamun huwus kalah nusantara ingsun amukti palapa, lamun kalah ring Gurun, ring Seram, Tanjungpura, ring Haru, ring Pahang, Dompo, ring Bali, Sunda, Palembang, Tumasik, samana ingsun amukti palapa.”

Hayam Wuruk (1334-1389
Rajapatni (Gayatri) died in 1350. After the death of her mother, Queen Tribuwanatunggadewi gave her throne to her son, Hayam Wuruk. Hayam Wuruk became king in the age of 16 and known as Sri Rajasanegara.
Hayam Wuruk period is the glorious day of Majapahit. He was accompanied by Gajah Mada as prime minister. Gajah Mada continued his goal to unify nusantara. One by one nusantara can be conquered. Majapahit comprised recent Indonesia , Tumasik and Semenanjung Melayu.
In that period, Majapahit had relationship with great kingdoms in South East Asia, such as India, Muangthai, Kamboja, and China. Majapahit trade was in advance term. Majapahit’s port such as Ujung Galuh, Gresik, Pasuruan were very busy and visited by Chinese, Indian, and Persian.
Beside growing as an advanced maritime kingdom, Majapahit also evolved as advance agrarian country.  Majapahit built dam and irrigation channels to water farms. Few roadings, bridges also constructed for an ease of traffic intra-regions. Majapahit produced rice, spices, cotton, silk, and plantation products.
Hayam Wuruk also concerned about culture activities. This was proven by lots of temples constructed and advance in literature. Temples from Majapahit era were Candi Sawentar, Candi Sumberjati, Candi Surawana, Candi Tikus, Candi Jabung. The most popular literature were Negarakertagama written by Empu Prapanca and Sutasoma written by Empu Sutasoma. In Negarakertagama, Pancasila term was found and in Sutasoma, Republic Indonesis Motto, Bhinneka Tunggal Ika , was found.
In Hayam Wuruk period, Bubat War was broken, between Majapahit and Pajajaran. Hayam Wuruk was intended to propose Diyah Pitaloka (Ciptaresmi), daughter of King Pajajaran.  Majapahit sent messenger to propose and both parties made agreement. The agreement contents was King of Majapahit should not propose to Pajajaran palace but at border of both kingdoms, in Bubat village. Gajah Mada has other plan. Gajah Mada forced Pajajaran king who was already in Bubat village to gave his daughter as tribute to King Hayam Wuruk. This request was rejected by Pajajarana and the war was unavoidably happened. Pajajaran kingdom group including king and his daughter were killed in this war. Hayam Wuruk did not agree with Gajah Mada action, and from that moment on, relationship from both side were not close anymore. Gajah Mada died in 1364, while Hayam Wuruk died in 1389. After both figures died, Majapahit declined.

Kusumawardhani-Wirakramawardhana (1389-1429)
After Hayam Wuruk, there was seizure of power in Majapahit. Hayam Wuruk predecessor was Kusumawardhani, who married to Wirakramawardhana. Wirakramawardhana led Majapahit from 1389 to 1429. Bhre Wirabumi, son of Hayam Wuruk harem was given authority in Blambangan. Bhre Wurabumi said that he had the right to be king of Majapahit.
In 1401-1406 Paregreg war broke out. Bhre Wirabumi was killed in this war. And this led to deeper conflict between Hayam Wuruk descendants. In 1429, Wirakramawardana died. Wirakramawardana was replaced by Suhita. Suhita was replaced by Bhre Pamotan, who was known as Srirajasawardhana. Bhre Pamotan moved the center of governance to Kahuripan to avoid family conflict. Bhre pamotan died in 1453 and he had no predecessor. In 1456, Bhre Wengker became the king as Girindra Wardhana. The family conflict kept growing until Ranawijaya reigned. In 1522, Majapahit was conquered by Demak Kingdom.

Source of Majapahit History;
Prasasti Butok (1244).This inscription was issued by Raden Wijaya after he became the king of Majapahit. This inscription note the collapse of Singasari Kingdom and Raden Wijaya struggle to establish the kingdom.
Kidung Harsawijaya and Kidung Panji Wijayakrama . Both kidung or poems  tell about how Raden Wijaya fought against enemies in the early years of Majapahit.
Kitab Pararaton recorded about kings of Singasari and Majapahit.
Kitab Negarakertagama recorded about Hayam Wuruk trip to East Java.

Majapahit had open political policy to interact with foreign countries such as China, Ayodya (Siam), Champa and Cambodia. In 1370 – 1381, Majapahit had sent several messenger to China as noted by Chinese chronicle from Ming Dynasty. Government structure in Majapahit:
1. King
2. Yuaraja or Kumaraja (Young King)
3. Rakryan Mahamantri Katrini
—–a. Mahamantri i-hino
—–b. Mahamantri i –hulu
—–c. Mahamantri i-sirikan
4. Rakryan Mahamantri ri Pakirakiran
—–a. Rakryan Mahapatih (Commander/Hamangkubhumi)
—–b. Rakryan Tumenggung (Kingdom Commander)
—–c. Rakryan Demung (Internal Affair Office)
—–d. Rakryan Kemuruhan (Liasona and Protocol Officer)
—–e. Rakryan Rangga (Commader Assistant)
5. Two Dharmadyaka , and each is assisted by religious official called Upapati. In Hayam Wuruk era there were 7 Upapati.

Beside the officials, under king there were regional kings (paduka bharata) each ruled in one region. Majapahit had civil and military officials as well. Majapahit has an advance government system and political system.

Here are literature from Majaahit period:
Kitab Negarakertagama, written by Mpu Prapanca
Kitab Sutasoma,  written by Mpu Tantular
Kitab Arjunawiwaha, written by Mpu Tantular
Kitab Kunjarakarna
Kitab Parhayajna
Kitab Prapanca, about kings of Majapahit and Singasari
Kitab Sundayana about Bubat war
Kitab Sarandaka about Sora Rebellion
Kitab Ranggalawe about Ranggalawe Rebellion
Panjiwijayakrama, about story of Raden Wijaya became king
Kitab Usana Jawa, about conquerance of Bali Island by Gajah Mada and Arya Damar and moving the capital to Gelgel and defeating giant king Maya Denawa.
Kitab Usana Bali, about conflict in Bali
Other literatures are: Kitab Paman Cangah, Tantu Pagelaran, Calon Arang, Korawasrama, Babhulisah, Tantri Kamandaka and Pancatantra.

Siropen: Yesteryear Syrup Drink Which Remains Exist

Surabaya has a legendary syrup which exists since1923, and founded by JC Van Drongelen. This factory is the first syrup factory in Indonesia, In 1942, when Japanese occupied Indonesia, it was under Japanese. And after Japanese lost in war, Dutch took over the factory, until 1958 when all Dutch companies should be handed down to Indonesia. In 1962 it became PD Aneka Pangan and in 2002, became part of PT Pabrik Es Wira Jatim.

The factory is located nearby China Town of Surabaya, and it uses the original building in 1923.

Syrup is processed in manual way to keep the original quality. This syrup is made of sugar and there are various taste: rose, frambosen, vanili, cocopandan, jeruk keprok, lychee, arbei and melon.

Now this syrup can be bought as token to bring back home, and packed with interesting box.

Siropen Factory Exclusive Photos

no images were found

Surabaya Calendar Event 2012

JANUARY
Chinese New Year Photography Exhibition 13 January to 16 February @ Gallery House of Sampoerna
Surabaya Heritage Track ‘Lunar Track’ mid of January @ House of Sampoerna
1000 Lampion Party of Hope 23 January @ G Walk Citraland
Wayang Kulit SHow (Ki Putu Agus Seno) January @ Taman Budaya

For more info or tour to enjoy the event

FEBRUARY
03-05 February         Ice Woman Chapter                               @ Gramedia Expo
04 February            Janger Sumberwangi -Theater                   @Taman Budaya
08-12 February         Universal Wedding                      @Tunjungan Plaza 6 floor
11 February            Wayang Kulit Show “Ki Kunto Wibisono”   @Taman Budaya
17,18,19 February     Traditional Culture Show                        @Taman Budaya
25 February            Wayang Orang ‘Kikis Tunggarono”               @Taman Budaya
29 Feb-04 March       Mega Bazaar Computer                            @Grand City

MARCH
01-31 March                Temple Track SHT                                             @House of Sampoerna
09 Mar-08 April          Painting Exhibition ‘Widdy & Friends’            @House of Sampoerna
10 March                      Wayang Kulit Show ‘Ki Lasno Pujo Karsono’      @Taman Budaya
16,17,18 March             Traditional Culture Perfirmance                        @Taman Budaya
12-15 March                 Java Furniture Fair                                              @Jatim Expo
24 March                      Wayang Kulit                                                           @Balai Pemuda
28 March-April           Automotive Exhibition                                            @Tunjungan Plaza
March                          Automotive Fair                                                        @Ciputra World
March                           Surabaya Illustrated Travel Exhibition                @French Consulate
31 March                      Ludruk Lerok Anyar ‘Sawunggaling’                     @Taman Budaya

For more info or tour to enjoy the event

APRIL
04-08 April                 Surabaya Motor Expo                                            @Jatim Expo
07 April                       Wayang Kulit Show ‘Ki Rudianto’                          @Taman Budaya
13 April- 6 May         Oshie                                                                @House of Sampoerna
13,14,15 April             Automotive Exhibition Class Mild Accelera        @SSC Pakuwon
13,14,15 April             Orek-Orek Ngawi Ramah Performance             @Taman Budaya
20 April                       Music Festival                                                         @Balai Pemuda
21 April                       Ludruk RRI SUrabaya ‘Seblak Sumilah’             @Taman Budaya
28 April                      Ludruk Mustika Jaya ‘Nguru uri Nemu Wadi’    @Taman Budaya

For more info or tour to enjoy the event

MAY


01-31 May            Surabaya Shopping Festival                                         @All Shopping Malls
01-13 May            Pasar Malam Tjap Toenjoengan                                  @Tunjungan Park
1-31 May              SHT ‘TOur De Museum’                                            @House of Sampoerna
02-06 May           Universal Wedding                                                        @Tunjungan Plaza III  04-05 May           Late Night Shopping                                                      @Tunjungan Plaza  04 May                Ludruk                                                                             @Balai Pemuda
05 May                 Wayang Kulit Show ‘Ki Mus Mujiono’                         @Taman Budaya
06 May                 Culture & Flower Parada                                              @Tugu Pahlawan
09-13 May           Batik Bordir @ Accessories                                          @Gramedia Expo
11, 12, 13 May     Traditional Arts & Culture Show                                 @Taman Budaya
16-20 May          Majapahit Travel fair                                                      @Grand City
16-20 May          Surabaya Great Expo                                                     @Gramedia Expo
19 May                Music Festival                                                                  @Balai Pemuda
20 May                Teenage Dance Competition                                          @Balai Pemuda
20 May                Rujak Uleg Festival                                                         @Jl. Kembang Kepun
23-27 May          Surabaya Fashion Parade                                               @Tunjungan Plaza
25 May                Nasi Goreng Jancuk Eating Contest                              @Surabaya Plaza Htl
26 May               Ludruk Putra WIjaya’Pakuwojo Tanding’                    @Taman Budaya
27 May               Tourism Ambassador Contest                                        @Surabaya City Hall

For more info or tour to enjoy the event

JUNE


01-30 June           SHT Holiday Season Track                                      @House of Sampoerna
02 June                 Kethoprak Kirun Show                                               @Taman Budaya
03 June                LA Light Music Concert                                              @Taman Surya
06-10 June          The 14th Computer Festival                                     @Grand City
08,09,10 June      Haul Sunan Ampel  ke 563                                          @Balai Pemuda
09 June                 Music Show                                                                    @Balai Pemuda
09 June               Ki Blego Adianto Wayang Kulit Show                           @Taman Budaya
15,16,17 June      Arts and Culture Show                                                  @Taman Budaya
15-18 June         Best Products Exhibitions                                            @Tunjungan Plaza
01-31 June         BBQ Promotion                                              @Cafe House of Sampoerna
21-24 June         Regional Products Fair                                               @Gramedia Expo
23 June               Vocal Group Competition                                               @Balai Pemuda
23 June               Ludruk Taruna Budaya                                                 @Taman Budaya
28 Jun-1 Jul        Rujak Uleg Festival                                                         @Jl. Kembang Kepun
23-27 May          East Food Indonesia                                                      @Gramedia Expo 

For more info or tour to enjoy the event

JULY
01-31 Jul          SHT Ngabuburit Track                                    @House of Sampoerna
Jul                     Kites Fertival                                                              @Ken Park
Jul                     Bull Race                                                                      @Ken Park
05-07 Jul          Cross Culture Festival                                              @Various Locations
06 Jul               Music Performance                                                    @Balai Pemuda
06-09 Jul        Indonesian Agrobussiness Expo                               @Tunjungan Plaza
08  Jul              Remo & Yosakoi Festival                                          @Taman Bungkul
14 July             Wayang Kulit ‘Ki Aditya Kresna’                              @Taman Budaya
Jul                    Beautiful Kites Festival                                              @Ken Park
7,8,14,15 Jul   G Walk Festival                                                           @G Walk
Jul                   Surabaya Great Fashion Expo                                    @Grand City
01-30 Jul        BBQ Promotion                                          @Cafe House of Sampoerna
All month       Moslem Fashion Festival                                            @Tunjungan Plaza

For more info or tour to enjoy the event

AUGUST
Aug                          Music Show                                                             @Balai Pemuda
Aug 31                     Ludruk Show                                                          @Balai Pemuda
31 Aug-03 Sept      Marine Industry                                                    @Tunjungan Plaza

For more info or tour to enjoy the event

SEPT
01 Sept                 Wayang Kulit Show ‘Ki Sigit Setyawan’                 @Taman Budaya
08 Sept                 Ketoprak Show ‘Padepokan Putat Selawe’           @Taman Budaya
13-16 Sept            East Java Tourism Trade & Investment              @Gramedia Expo
14 Sept                 Music Show                                                               @Balai Pemuda
14,15,16 Sept       Regional Arts & Cultural Show                               @Taman Budaya
19-23 Sept            Universal Wedding                                                  @Tunjungan Plaza
22 Sept                  Ludruk Batu Putera                                              @Taman Budaya
Sept                       Full Moon Festival                                                 @Sky Hall Ken Park

For more info or tour to enjoy the event

OCTOBER


03-07 Oct             Automotive Exhibition                                   @Tunjungan Plaza
06 Oct                   Wayang Kulit Show “Ki Dwi Arto Yuwono’  @Taman Budaya
07,20, 21 Oct        Sapi Sono& Bull Race                                      @Madura
12-21 Oct              Fatim Fair                                                        @Grand City
12,13,14 Oct          Mutiara Budaya Bumi Wengket                   @Taman Budaya
19 Oct                    Nasi Goreng Jancuk Eating Contest             @Surabaya Plaza Hotel
20 Oct                    Ludruk                                                              @Balai Pemuda
20 Oct                    Wis Tibo Ketiban Ondho Show                      @Taman Budaya
20 Oct                    Madura Bull Race                                             @Pamekasan
21 Oct                    Bull Race                                                             @Pamekasan
Oct                         Culture parade                                    @Heroes Monument-Grahadi
24-28 Oct             Surabaya Auto Expo                         @Jatim Expo
26-29 Oct             Surabaya Int’l Jewellery Fair                    @Shangrilla Hotel

For more info or tour to enjoy the event

NOVEMBER


01-30 Nov             SHT Heroic Track                                         @House of Sampoerna
02-04 Nov             Indie Clothing Expo                                      @Gramedia Expo
o3 November        Wayang Kulit ‘Ki Arin Wicaksono’               @taman Budaya
07-11 Nov             Automotive Exhibition                                   @Gramedia Expo
09-12 Nov            Product Expo                                                  @Tunjungan Plaza
09-12 Nov            Investrade Forum                                         @Tunjungan Plaza
9,10,11 Nov          Arts & Culture Show                                      @Taman Budaya
Nov                        Batik fashion Festival                                    @ITC
16-18 Nov             Surabaya Holiday Fair                                   @Gramedia Expo
16-18 Nov              KTI Investment & Trade Expo                   @Gramedia Expo                  16-18 Nov            Int’l Education & Training Expo                   @Gramedia Expo
21-25 Nov            Craft & Fashion                                               @ Gramedia Expo
24 Nov                  Ludruk ‘Wanita Penarik Becak’                     @Taman Budaya
Nov                       Surabaya Juang Parade                                 @Tugu Pahlawan-Balai Kota
Nov                      Dragon Boat Race Surabaya                           @Waduk Kedurus

For more info or tour to enjoy the event

Waliyah Zainab

Waliyah Zainab grave is located in Diponggo village, Tambak District, Bawean Island located on hill foot and 350 meters from beach. This grave is located at the back yard of Diponggo village mosque, that was built by Waliyah Zainab.

The tomb stone is surrounded by wall and roof. The tomb is made of marble with simple decoration, it has antefic decoration on every corner of the construction. The size is 253 cm x 66 c, and 76 cm high. The tomb is new made of teak.

For Baweanese, Waliyah Zainab was the second wife of Sunan Giri, and her name ws Dewi Wardah. She was the daughter of Sunan Bungkul Surabaya and she was married because of pomegranade found by Sunan Giri in a contest. She was not happy became the second wife and she chose to stay in Bawean to disseminate Islam.

Her grave is a pilgrimage destination. Waliyah Zainab also has heritage stuff, namely jug, 2 spears, big iron grail, china ware, rice laddle, big coconut skin, and etc. The ceramic is estimated from Ming dynasty and those stuff are well kept in a room not far from the grave.

Legend of Gunung Sumbing, Wonosobo, Central Java, Indonesia

Sumbing is mountain located in Central Java and one of Java’s peak, notably located in regency of Wonosobo, Temanggung, and Magelang. This mountain is 3371 m asl, the peak has an active crater and most part of its slope is used as farming  land.

Long time ago there were husband and wife and they has 2 sons. They lived as farmer, and lived in harmony in the village. Everyday they went to their farms and enjoyed the mild weather in their neighborhood. They hacked the farm, and then plan seed. At noon when the heat of the sun was very strong, they rest, and afternoon they returned home. Their daily activity was always the same as yesterday.

Their sons always quarreled everyday until oneday their father was so angry and could not take anymore to see his sons fighting to each other. The second who was impolite was hit by him that made his lips ripped (harelip) or in Javanese sumbing. So the mountain nearby where they lives was called as Mt Sumbing. The other mountain is called as Sindoro from Si and Ndoro referred the first son who was polite and had good behavior. Sumbing peak can be seen in its ripped shape if you look from east or west side of the mountain.

Myth from Tieng Village, Dieng, Wonosobo, Central Java, Indonesia

A big flood hit Tieng village, Kejajar district, Wonosobo last year 18 December 2011. There are 11 people died of this disaster. This was due to the absence of tree to absorb and protect soil from water or rain. Forest are bare, only potato farming span widely one very hills and small mountain. The flood was caused by heavy rain and there is no big tress at all at Gunung Pakuwojo.

Dieng slope is 15 to 30 degrees andit is on altitude 1200 to 1500 m asl. There was flood from Gunung Pakuwojo hit Tieng village in 1986 and took 3 casualties. There should be a big scale of reforestation. In the future other disaster can struck again if 8 hours rain falls on the region.

THE MYTH

This myth is re surged on evacuation shelters of Tieng flood casualties.

It has been years decades that myth lives from generation to generation by elders in Tieng village and even today this myth is still believed though it is not proven yet. No one knows who initially tell this myth, about flood and golden rendeng plant thatw s used by Tieng village to heal their cuts.

Rendeng or centella is also known as antanan, penegowang, caling rambut, antenan gede, pegagan, kori kori.  This plant can grow on 2500 m asl and it has no stock, only with short rhizome and stolons to creep with length from 10 to 80 cm. It has single leave and stock length is from 5 to 15 cm in human kidney shape.

Almost all villagers of  Tieng know and heard golden rendeng centella myth. On foot of Gunung Pakuwojo there was peculiar rendeng, unlike other rendeng commonly. It was a golden rendeng. This rendeng should be protected and no one should pick this as if so, there will be huge flood that will destroy Tieng village, Cebong Lake in Cebong will be broken down and inundate and devastate all Tieng village area.

People said that golden rendeng was located at Ngesong cave, a rock cave located with approximately 10 people capacity. Some said that it grew in the middle of Gunung Pakuwojo, but no one ever see this golden centella.

The message of this myth could be that golden rendeng means trees and other plants that protects soil. Rendeng is cure to heal cut and gold is an expensive metal.

Hindu Temple found on Gunung Prau (Mr Prau), Dieng, Central Java, Indonesia

Igir mranak is a village located in Kejajar district, Wonosobo, Central Java, Indonesia. Igirmranak derives from igir means hills and mranak means a tree name that grew when the village was established as there are many mranak tree, so the village was called as igirmranak village. Mranak tree is species of tree that if it is decomposed, mushroom will overgrown on it. The mushroom tastes better than the other and estimated that this village was established in 1825 to 1830 in Diponegoro war period. The village is located on 2.215 m asl, the temperature is 14 to 22 degrees, covering 109,862  Ha and the inhabitants are around 715, located 4 km from its district and 21 km from Wonosobo city.

The temples parts were found by locals that seek for herb as their occupation. They found carved stone and dome shape when they explored Gunung Prau. They dug the dome that was partly buried by soil and they found that it was temple. They went home and told their neighbors. Locals then tried to dig the site but they quit when it was soaked by water, as they were afraid that if they continue will bring bad luck to locals. Remains found in this site were 2kemuncak and 1 yoni.

Currently the yoni is kept and treated as sacred stone.