Hey guys,
Recently I just visited the ruins of Majapahit Imperial capital city, Trowulan, Mojokerto, East Java.
In mid-November 2006 Indonesian National Museum (Museum Gajah) gonna held special exhibition about Majapahit Empire. It's gonna be great (especially for history freak like me ). The exhibition to commemorate the coronation of Raden Wijaya as Kertajasa Jayawardhana, the monarch and founder of Majapahit in November 1293.
Wringin Lawang Gate

The huge gate quite awesome and fascinate me...
The glorious Ancient Indonesian Empires always captivate my imagination since Junior Hi....
It's been my long lasting obsession.
And in this Indochat I realize there's no special threads discussing about Majapahit.

So guys, lets discuss about Majapahit, the celebrated era of our ancestors.
The history, politics, the Heros, Royalty; King and Queen, art, architecture, technology, literature, religion, people, demographic, economy, trade, almost everything about this celebrated Imperial era.

First trivia: yang remeh dahulu.....
What is Majapahit?
(I believe many of Indonesian already know the origin of this name..... ).

Maja (a kind of fruit, not good to eat tough, quite non edible)
Pahit (bitter)
Bitter Maja fruit that abundant in Majapahit capital.
First the Majapahit area are called "Hutan Tarik" (tarik forest), When Raden Wijaya open new village (tanah perdikan) bestowed by King of Kediri, Jayakatwang, he finds lots of bitter Maja trees, so he simply named this new village Majapahit.....

So since the Majapahit Empire was Hindu, were the Kings considered avatarsatris or were they considered God Kings (Deva raja) --or were they considered Thammaraja (selfless king). ?

I have read much into Sri Vijaya, but very little on Majapahit--but im impressed with the military conquest of Majapahit of srivijayan lands.

Do you think you can post a picture of the extreme military extent of majapahit, khun majapahitan?

Thanks, bro.

some biblio on the majapahit empire:

The Majapahit Empire was an Indianized kingdom based in eastern Java from 1293 to around 1500. Its greatest ruler was Hayam Wuruk, whose reign from 1350 to 1389 marked the empire's peak when it dominated other kingdoms in southern Malay Peninsula, Borneo, Sumatra, Bali, and the Philippines.

The Majapahit was the last of the great Hindu empires of the Malay archipelago. It was preceded by the Srivijayan kingdom, based in Palembang on the island of Sumatra.

The founder of the Majapahit Empire, Kertarajasa or Prince (Raden) Wijaya, was the son-in-law of Kertanegara, the last ruler of the Singhasari kingdom, also based in Java. After Singhasari drove Srivijaya out of Java altogether in 1290, the rising power of Singhasari came to the attention of Kublai Khan in China and he sent emissaries demanding tribute. Kertanegara, last ruler of the Singhasari kingdom, refused to pay tribute and the Khan sent a massive 1000 ship expedition which arrived off the coast of Java in 1293.

By that time, a rebel from Kediri, Jayakatwang had usurped and killed Kertanagara. The Majapahit founder, after a brief exile in the favor of the Regent (Bupati) Arya Wiraraja of Madura, allied himself with the Mongols against Jayakatwang and, once Jayakatwang was destroyed, turned and forced his Mongol allies to withdraw from the isle after he launched a surprise attack. The huge Mongol Army in confusion had to withdraw as they were in hostile land and it was the last time for the monsoon sea-wind to depart for home, otherwise, they would have had to wait for another six months on a totally hostile island. Then, Wijaya ascended the throne as the first king of Majapahit on 1293 AD. In the Lands of Tarik he built a strong hold, and the capital was named Majapahit also, after the bitter (pahit) maja fruit, a sort of tree which grew in abundance in that area. His formal name was Kertarajasa Jayawarddhana. But the newborn empire was not without challenge. Some of his most trusted men, including Ranggalawe, Sora, and Nambi set several rebellion against the king, but they all died in misery. It was suspected that mahapati Halayudha set the conspiracy to overthrow all of his opponents in order to gain the highest position in the government. But following the death of the last rebel Kuti, mahapati was captured and jailed for his tricks, and was sentenced to death. Wijaya himself died in 1309 AD.

He was succeeded by his son, Jayanegara, whose mother was a Malayu princess. Jayanegara was not a good king since he had shown some immoral behaviors such as willing to take his own step-sisters as his wives. He was entitled Kala Gemet, or "weak villain". Jayanegara was murdered by his surgeon on 1328 AD. He should have been succeeded by his stepmother, Rajapatni who retired from court to be come a nun in Buddhist monastery, Therefore she appointed her daughther, Tribhuwana as a queen of Majapahit to rule under her auspices.

During Tribhuwana’s rule Majapahit grew to be a great kingdom and famous on all the seas of the Archipelago and a broad. Tribhuwana ruled until the death of her mother in 1350 AD. Then her son Hayam Wuruk ascended the throne. (1)

Gajah Mada, an ambitious Majapahit prime minister and regent from 1331 to 1364, extended the empire's rule to include most of present day Indonesia. A few years after Gajah Madah's death, the Majapahit navy captured Palembang, putting an end to the Srivijayan kingdom. Gajah Mada's other renown general was Adityawarman, known for his conquest in Minangkabau.

This article is part of
the History of Malaysia series


Prehistoric Malaysia (40,000-2,000 BCE)

Gangga Negara (2nd-11th century CE)

Langkasuka (2nd-14th century)

Pan Pan (3rd-5th century)

Srivijaya (3rd century -1400)

Majapahit Empire (1293-1500)

Kedah Sultanate (1136-present)

Malacca Sultanate (1402 - 1511)

Johor Sultanate (1528-current)
Jementah Civil War (1879)
White Rajahs (1841-1946)

British Malaya (1874-1946)

Anglo-Dutch Treaty of 1824
Burney Treaty (1826)
Straits Settlements (1826-1946)
Larut War (1861-1874)
Klang War (1867-1874)
Pangkor Treaty of 1874
Federated Malay States (1895-1946)

Unfederated Malay States (19th century-1946)

Anglo-Siamese Treaty of 1909

Battle of Penang (1914)

North Borneo (1882-1963)

Mat Salleh Rebellion (1896-1900)

World War II (1941-1945)

Battle of Malaya (1941-42)

Parit Sulong Massacre (1942)

Battle of Singapore (1942)

Syburi (1942-1945)

Battle of North Borneo (1945)

Sandakan Death Marches (1945)

Malayan Union (1946-1948)

Federation of Malaya (1948-1963)

Malayan Emergency (1948-1960)

Bukit Kepong Incident (1950)

Independence Day (1957)

Federation of Malaysia (1963-present)

Operation Coldstore (1963)
Indonesia-Malaysia confrontation (1962-1966)
Brunei Revolt (1962-1966)
Singapore in Malaysia (1963-1965)
May 13 Incident (1969)

New Economic Policy (1971-1990)

Operation Lalang (1987)

1988 Malaysian constitutional crisis (1987-88)

Asian financial crisis (1997-98)

[edit this box]
Although the Majapahit rulers extended their power over other islands and destroyed neighboring kingdoms, their focus seems to have been on controlling and gaining a larger share of the commercial trade that passed through the archipelago. About the time Majapahit was founded, Muslim traders and proselytizers began entering the area.

Majapahit’s Power reached its summit under the rule of King Hayam Wuruk. After Hayam Wuruk died in 1389 AD, Majapahit power began to decline with a civil war over succession that started in 1401 and went on for four years. The country was split up by fraternal conflitets. Hayam Wuruk had been succeeded by the crown princess Kusumawardhani, who had married a relative, Prince Wikramawardhana. Hayam Wuruk also had a son by his previous marriage, the crown prince Wirabhumi. He was jealous of his sister and his brother in-law, so he claimed rights to the throne. The tense relations between the two parties remained a smoldering fire during some. (1)

It grew into a big blaze at the beginning of the 15th century when a fraternal war called Paregreg was declared and lasted from 1403 to 1406 AD. At last Wikramawardhana won the war. Wirabhumi who fled at night, was caught and decapitated. Wikramawardhana ruled to 1492 AD. Wikramawardhana was succeeded by his daugther Suhita, who ruled from 1426 to 1447 AD. She was the second child of Wikramawarddhana by a concubine who was the daughter of Wirabhumi. (1)

In 1447, Suhita died and was succeeded by Kertawijaya, her brother. He ruled until 1451 AD. After Kertawijaya died, Bhre Pamotan become a king with formal name Rajasawardhana and ruled at Kahuripan. He died in 1453 AD. (1)

After that during three years Majapahit grew internally weaker and until 1456 AD, when Bhre Wengker, son of Kertawijaya, came to hold position as the ruler. He died at 1466 AD and succeeded by Singhawikramawardhana. In 1468 AD Kertabhumi suddenly attacked Bhre Wengker and promoted himself as king of Majapahit.

Singhawikramawardhana moved the Kingdom’s capital to Daha and continued his rule until he was succeeded by his son Ranawijaya at 1474 AD. In 1478 AD he defeated Kertabhumi and brought the divided Majapahit back into one Kingdom. Ranawijaya ruled from 1474 AD to 1519 AD with formal name Girindrawardhana. Nevertheless, Majapahit situation had decayed by long lasting family conflicts and enhanced by the growing-up of the north-coastal kingdoms in Java.

Majapahit found itself unable to control the rising power of the Sultanate of Malacca. Dates for the end of the Majapahit Empire range from 1478 to 1520, or - as recorded by the babad - c. 1400 Saka. After series of battle fought with the succeeding monarch of Demak Bintoro Sultanate, founded by Kertabumi's own son Raden Patah, the last remaining courtsmen of Majapahit was forced to withdraw eastward. A large number of courtiers, artisans, priests, and members of the royalty moved east to the island of Bali at the end of Majapahit's existence, where they remained isolated until the late 19th and early 20th centuries when the Dutch colonials mounted a military expedition to take control of the island; however, the crown and the true seat of government moved to Demak under the leadership of Pengeran, later Sultan Fatah.

source: wikipedia

^ Majapahit kings and the kings of previous Javanese Hindu kingdoms are always portrayed as God Vishnu riding the Garuda in stone statues found all over Java.

It is the same during the Ayuthayan Empire (Golden Thai epoch). The Kings were considered Thammaraja/Devarajas. Meaning (selfless king/god king). The incarnation of Lord Vishnu.

interesting!

Sirikittong:

Khun thai krap?
Sawadee krap.....phom rak mak Krung Thep Krap !!! Thai food - aroy mak.
Oh yeah...phom phut phasa thai nit noy diao !, so please don't continue hehehehe

I know that only if Indonesian Javanese language is still based on basic sanskrit writing.
Also, the national emblem of Indonesia is the same as that of Thailand , that is GARUDA.
I see many companies in Thailand which have done good social deeds to the country or the people of Thailand are allowed to display the GARUDA ( the bird with the body of a human, red in color) emblem. Am I right?

The concept of King's divine power is not new in Indonesian history.
In original Hindu concept in India, King is king and Gods is gods. But in ancient Indonesia there's tendency to incorporate the divinity of God's power to atributes king's nobility, power, and authority. The concept Devaraja Sang Nata probably originated from Hindu ancient Indonesia. Later spread throughout Southeast Asia.

The Ciaruteun inscriptions, from Tarumanagara kingdom of West Java (4th to 7th century AD).

vikkrantasyavanipateh shrimatah purnavarmmanah tarumanagararendrasya vishnoriva padadvayam

Translation according to Vogel:

This two foots (prints) are just like (the foot of) Wishnu, belongs to King of the world, strong, brave, noble and famous, Purnawarman ruler of Tarumanagara.

Since Tarumanagara era the king is potrayed as the incarnation of Wishnu on earth.

Srivijayan emperors is believed to have divine power that can cast horrible curse to rebelious vassal kingdoms. So many rulers around Malacca strait swore their allegiance to the emperor to avoid this curse (and the realistic thing is to avoid punitive raid expedition of Srivijayan navy..... ).


King Airlangga of Kahuripan, Java was potrayed as Wishnu riding Garuda ca. 1001 AD - 1049 AD



So the first King of Majapahit, Kertajasa Jayawardhana here is potrayed as the incarnation of Lord Wishnu. Completed with Wishnu regalia (Laksana), holding "Cengkha" winged shell.

Sawadee khrap!! Pleasure to meet you khun ungasg; very good that you can speak a little Thai. LOL! I am very impressed! Hope you learn more!

Salamet dateng! Terimi Kasi khun ungasg!

+++

Yes, the krut (garuda) is placed mostly in official government buildings or sometimes in company buildings that have had acquired the permission from His Majesty's Government to place the Garuda. In Thailand--it is very uncommon to see the Garuda being hung on every building; I assume it is also similar in Java/ Bali?

++++

Apa kabar!



Very interesting. Did the Indonesian empires prior to Majapahit or Sri Vijaya ever conquored parts of mainland south east asia ? It is even sufficed that Funan and Chenla (the pre cursor states of Angkor) were Malay. Since the kingdom of Champa was indeed Java-based, as well.

Considering the Malay people inhabited the region FAR LONGER than any other group of people--I thought it might be a possibility.

Do you, Majapahitan or anyone else, have a speculation or opinion on this matter?

i heard Gajah Mada is not a javanese, or at least is not pure javanese, his name is not javanese words.......

i heard that hypothesis before. because there's no "gajah" in Java, it was likely he's from other place where elephant lives.
maybe he's a siamese? our friend sirikittong looks similar to his picture in history comics

The fact that elephants are prominent in Buddhist lore (isn't there carvings of elephants in Borobudur?) and that Ganesha is a man-elephant, I am definite that Gajah is not a strange animal for our forefathers.

And also, there are fossils of elephants found in Java, be it the ancient stegodon type or the modern one (Elephas maximus). The recent discovery in Rancamalang, Bandung confirms this. So perhaps they do exist in those days, alongside with the now extinct Javan Tiger.

Beside, there are so many places and ancient people's name with Gajah in it.
Leuwigajah in Cimahi, Kampung Gajah in Bandung, Karang Gajah in Garut etc. For names, beside Gajah Mada, from the old Sundanese figure: Gajah Lumantung, Gajah Hambalang, Gajah Waringin, etc.

So, I wouldn't doubt the origin of Gajah Mada because of his name.

Gajah Mada is a mysterious historical figure

No historical records about his origin, there's no tomb to commemorate his magnificent achievement.
He's probably the only Majapahit historical figure quite unknown where he's born and where he died.
But his legacy, the unified archipelagic empire of Majapahit is quite is the testament of his ambition and genius vision, a bright politician and warrior. Majapahit as the ancient incarnation of modern Indonesia stay forever as inspirations, source of pride and dignity for Indonesian.

According to books and articles I've reads here's the speculations about his origin:

Using animal name as people name is quite common in ancient Java, Lembu Tal, Kebo Ijo, Kebo Anabrang, Mundingwangi Dikusumah, Ciung Wanara, Mahesa Cempaka, etc. Gajah (means elephant) is known in ancient Java, In Borobudur relief we can find the image of Elephant, probably back then there's an original Javanese elephant sub-species, but if not it's possible to import them from Sumatra, since ancient Indonesian ship quite reliable to transport large things. But Gajah is abundant in Sumatra up until now. So the speculations arose.

Gajah Mada probably native East Javanese, born somewhere in the village along Brantas river valley.
The name Gajah just the name, to atribute his huge body. Many Javanese hold to this notions maybe for the sake of their Javaness.... . He probably an talented orphan boy with humble origin, his brightness caught the attention of Majapahit general, then he serve in Majapahit royal army.

Gajah Mada probably Malayu or Srivijayan origin, but since young he serve Javanese Majapahit special forces (Bhayangkara, the royal guard).
This theory probably based after the congquest of Malayu by Singhasari. The Pamalayu expedition led by King Kertanegara conquer the court of Malayupura (now Jambi), part of Srivijayan empire that already weaken. Malayupura once stood as rival for Srivijaya before Srivijaya conquer it. Then as Srivijaya weaken, Malayu began to be more important and enjoy certain degree of independence.

This conquest (some says alliance, cause Kertanegara gave gift for the people of Malayu, a huge 6 metres statue made in Java, then transport it to Sumatra) brough many royalties (princess of Malayu like Dara Jingga and Dara Petak), scholars, Buddhist priest (Dharmaputras), artisans, warriors, etc, to Javanese courts. Gajah Mada vast knowledge about various kingdoms, islands, and area around archipelago probably due to Srivijayan knowledge, is he Malayu soldier, that's why he really know his way when he launch naval attack to Srivijayan capital like he's ever been there before.

Gajah Mada probably Minang origin (West Sumatra). This hypothese almost the same as Malayu or Srivijayan origin, the point is Gajah Mada probably Sumatran with Minang blood in him. Actually I've heard this rumors from my Minangkabau friends, that the elders of Minangkabau people believed (and claim ) that Gajah Mada was a Minang boy when he "merantau" to Java. However this claim quite disputable and hold no historic proof.

Gajah Mada probably Balinese origin. Old Balinese story claims that Gajah Mada is Balinese origin. Balinese even believed that Gajah Mada is the incarnation of certain Hindu god (sorry I don't remember which one, not Wishnu I believed, cause Wishnu almost always reserved to Javanese King). This also based on Gajah Mada know how and where during his first overseas conquest to neighboring island of Bali, like he ever lived there before. But why he invade his home country....? And in Bali he face quite hostile resistance.

But the sure thing is Gajah Mada Is not Sundanese..... some Sundanese even up until now still despise him.... Because Gajah Mada don't respect the ancient alliance between Javanese (inhabit central and eastern Java) and Sundanese (inhabit western part of Java). Sundanese and Javanese believe that they are brothers waay back since ancient times, so it's a sin for brothers to attack and hurt eachothers. The historic river of Cipamali originally sign the border between Sunda and Java. Pamali means forbidden sin, means it's forbidden for brothers to fight among themself.

Remember the Kidung Sunda story, or Pasunda Bubat incident...? Gajah Mada tricked and trapped King of Sunda and most of Sundanese royal family in Bubat square. The bloody incidents where all of Sundanese performed honorable act of loyalty and bravery, not to submit to Majapahit until the last drop of blood and tears . Even the beautiful Princess, Dyah Pitaloka Chitraresmi take her own life to uphold the dignity of her kingdom and her people. Or maybe she's fell in to despair and lost all hope....? But this is sad story even for me....

mysterious background notwithstanding, it would be almost impossible then for a non Javanese to hold such powerful position in a Javanese Kingdom unless he was a real kick @ss genius.

Mas Maja bagaimana anda melihat skandal "Bubat Gate" kalau ada apakah konsekuensinya disitu dimulainya menurun karir politik GM ?

Apakah akan dibuat film epic nya misalnya kaya.. The last Samurai... wah seru deh pilihTom Cruise ato Mas Maja..

interesting

Dyah Pitaloka Chitraresmi ...the pricess that commited suicide rather than be taken by Majapahit Imperial forces, khun?

This is very interesting--are there any statues or monuments in the honor of the Sundanese royal family ?

I know that your sig tells the tale--very sad indeed, if I may add.

The Garuda Pancasila national emblem is hung in every government building and on almost every classroom in Indonesia, from Aceh to Papua.



Srivijaya controlled the Malay Peninsula and southern Thailand, while Majapahit also have political power over Malay Peninsula. The Malay kingdom at Temasik (now Singapore) was attacked and destroyed by Majapahit raiders in 1377.

Thanks thanks khun. Do you know any relations with champa and java or malayupura at all?

^ There are heaps of trade and marital links between Champa and Srivijaya-Majapahit kingdoms.

In India, the monarch doesn't claim to be the incarnation of Vishnu (avatar). Maybe it's considered blasphemy by Brahman (priest) caste if Ksatriyas (warrior/king) claim to be god's incarnation. The known historical avatar figures known in India are Raam Avatara, Khrisna Avatara, and Buddha Avatara. Even the great king Ashoka doesn't claim to be incarnation of Vishnu, although he is truly a great king.

Actually the Hindu concept Devaraja or Divine King probably first appear in Tarumanagara, West Java since it was the oldest Hindu kingdom in the region (4th century AD). King Purnawarman is regarded as Wishnu incarnation on earth.
Then another kingdoms also adopted this concept. The Srivijayan inscription proclaimed the emperor has divine god-like power, to bless or to curse his subjects.
Sanjaya family of Hindu Mataram also use this divine monarch claim. Sanjaya, the founder of Mataram actually a prince from kingdom of Galuh.
While Galuh and Sunda are twin kingdoms separate by Citarum river. This twin kingdom formed from the breaking of Tarumanagara kingdom, after being weakened by Srivijaya invasion.

Syailendra dynasty that rule central Java also adopted this concept of divine monarch. There's strongly suggested blood-link or marital-link between the Javan Syailendra with Funan and later Chenla royalties in mainland Southeast Asia. Jayavarman II, the founder of Khmer empire lived as a prince at the court of Sailendra in Java, whether as a royal hostage of Java's vassal kingdom, or for his education (or both), has not yet been established. Thus he brought the art and culture of Javanese Sailendran court to Cambodia.

The Devaraja concept reach it's zenith in physical and cultural significance in magnificent Angkor civilization of Khmer Empire. Then later, the empire that also influenced Sukothai and Ayuthaya of Thailand, and Champa.

It's the fact that Austronesian stock (or many called Malay-Austronesian) is inhabit the region (Southeast Asian Archipelago and some mainland parts) far longer and earlier than other race, Like Dai Viet and Siamese (Thai) that came from North (around China) in later migration wave.
Sundanese, Javanese, Balinese, Minang, Srivijayan-Malay, and Champa, (also people of Phillippines islands)are share same ancestry: Austronesian speaking race. Some people even sugested Khmer as also share Austronesian ancestry with the rest of us.

Now people (especially in Malaysia) used the name Melayu or Malay as the word to identify race, The other name for Austronesian race. But in Indonesia the word Melayu is more likely used to identify the certain ethnic groups that inhabit coastal Sumatra, coastal Borneo, and Malay peninsula (Malaysia). Javanese, Minang, Balinese, and Sundanese will refused to be called Melayu, cause they feel their culture and legacy is far older and refined than coastal Malay of Malaysia, Brunei and Sumatra .



The word Malay is first mentioned to identify kingdom and place, not people or race. It's Malayupura (now Batanghari riverbank, Jambi province, Indonesia). Malayupura is the first real rival for growing Srivijaya in Southern Sumatra. Later Malayupura is conquered and absorb within Srivijaya's realm. Although conquered, Malayupura language and culture prevail and later used as Srivijaya's national language. The inscriptions written in old Malay is found throughout Srivijaya territory, even found in central Java. Srivijaya is responsible of the widespread of Bahasa Melayu throughout archipelago, that now serve as the base/origin of Bahasa Melayu (in Malaysia) and Bahasa Indonesia.

For Champa, it is the long lasting ally for Java over centuries. During the rising of Mongol forces, King Kertanegara of Singhasari (the predecessor of Majapahit) formed alliance with Champa to hold growing and threathning Mongol forces-The Yuan dynasty of China. Many kings of Java and Champa intermarried. One of the famous Queen of later era Majapahit is princess of Champa (Putri Cempo), and she's a muslim woman. The tomb of Champa Princess can be found in Trowulan, Majapahit, East Java.

I love the war uniform of the Majapahitan archers with their long bows & cool helmets...

The Bubat-Gate ...?
For me..., that has mixed Javanese and Sundanese blood within me, the story is quite personal....
I consider the ancient Sunda-Galuh as my ancestors.
My ancestors from my father's side are nobles from Ciamis, the heart of Galuh. The Sunda kingdom that fought Majapahit bravely till the end. The home of the Princess Pitaloka....

The consequence of this incident quite fatal for Gajah Mada, he's playing with the Emperor's heart and authority.....

Gajah Mada political trick to conquer Sunda (btw..., he's unable to conquer Sunda in military way...) is without the emperor consent and approval. Maybe now, we called Gajah Mada has commited lèse-majesté , let say if a Thailand Prime Minister has surpassed King's authority, what would people and ministers says....?

The emperor Hayam Wuruk was dissapointed, he has lost his faith to this powerful Prime Minister. The opposed ministers has arroused the Emperor's suspicions that Gajah Mada now is too powerful, that he maybe gonna commit Coup d'etat and have Majapahit throne reserved for himself.
Howabout the emperor personal feeling....? It strongly suggested that the emperor is feeling guilty, sad, angered, and broken hearted after the tragic death of his future queen, Princess of Sunda.
So..., after the incident the emperor ordered Gajah Mada for early retirement (btw he's quite old at that time). But despite the suspicions, the history proved that Gajah Mada is a loyal servant for Majapahit's crown He accepted emperor's offer and retired himself to Madakaripura, Probolinggo (Prabhalingga).
Btw it's strongly suggested that Gajah Mada adhere Siwa-Buddha, Javanese syncretism of Hinduism and Buddhism. Several years later, Gajah Mada vanished from his mountain retirement house. His wive try to search for him everywhere, but he just dissapeard. This event strongly add speculations for Gajah Mada's supranatural origin.... .



Me or Tom Cruise....? becanda yah....?

Bikin film, Pasti seru tuh.....
Actually I've had imagined this story being filmed weather in animation or real movie.....

I'll have Dian Sastro to be cast as Princess Dyah Pitaloka Citraresmi. or I'll have Acha (that girl that sing "My Heart" with Irwansyah), she got that innoccent face need to be protected.
Nicholas Saputra or VJ Evan as young Emperor Hayam Wuruk
Barry Prima (or Ade Rai.... ) as Gajah Mada
Dessy Ratnasari as Queen of Sunda (Mother of Dyah Pitaloka)
Tio Pakusadewo as King of Sunda (Father of Dyah Pitaloka)
Christine Hakim as former Queen Thribhuwanottunggadewi (Mother of Hayam Wuruk)
Didi Petet as Patih Madu (the machmaker)
Deddy Mizwar as Patih Anepaken (Sundanese brave general)

This will be great....

That's her.....



Sadly...., no
IMO People of Sunda should build this monument on the site of Bubat square, Majapahit.



It's sad story......,
you should see my tears dropping when I read this story back in junior high
Especially the part when the Princess desperately running to the center of the square just to find his father's dead body among piles of corpses. She cried...., then she grab the blade and......,

The other sad part is, when the emperor can't help to cry, while holding the Princess dead body.
He try to be brave, but his chest shaking, trying to hold from crying, it's too much for him.... Nelangsa.....

Hey thank you so much for the great information, khun! Very very good. This is more than I asked for---but THANK YOU FOR EVERYTHING!







...I wish i was back in time and could help the princess Pitaloka Chitraresmi...take her with me to the mountains and live peacefully with her. even thou she lost her father and her mother---i would take care of her and be a good husband to her...instead of her killing herself.......

You are right, this story is so so sad.

Hey, some talk between Majapahitans and Sirikittong led to this thread.

Majapahit's extent.
Its good to distinguish between Majapahit kingdom and Majapahit empire.

Majapahit proper as kingdom was in eastern Java. From here Eastern Java ( and central Java, Bali, Madura) were directly governed by the dynastic family. This was the core region.

Majapahit empire: Majapahit incl. conquered territories/tributaries, covering much of Nusantara ( in broad sense meaning archipelago incl. Southern part Malay pen ). The local rulers of many polities in outer territories, like Sumatra etc. became suzerain, by different ways : voluntary, intermarriage and by bloody combats.

Conquests and tributaries confirmed in other old records
Everybody knows that chronicles can exaggerate or spice up things. It s good to compare them with other sources. Many of Majapahit 's claimed conquests/tributaries are confirmed, even by local chronicles of the subordinated rivalling polities. Very significant.

Old Sumatran records like Hikayat Raja2 Pasai (Aceh)mention the expedition of 400 Majapahit ships conquering Aceh and eastern Sumatra. Chinese (Ming ) and Portugese records ( Albuquerque etc) confirm Majapahit's annexation of Sumatra too. Borneo chronicles from the Banjar polities enumerated Majapahit's dependecies throughout Nusantara.

For the southern Malay peninsula during roughly 1300-1400 period, the Ayuthaya and Majapahit claims sometimes overlap in records. At the very least we can say that local Malay records (for example Malay annals from Malacca sultanate, rival of Majapahit) admitt that somewhere between 1340–1390 some peninsular parts (incl. Singapore) became within Majapahit influentual sphere.



Yep. interesting story in old records will follow

Yes, he's not Jawanese. He also not Siamese. He's Singaporean because all ancient Singaporean has animal name like Pak Belalang.

Dian Sastro would be perfect!! Not Acha she's too young. Second choice would be former Miss Indonesia Artika Sari Devi


wakks...kayanya terlalu bule dech How about Sony (Cornelia Agatha's husband)? I prefer to a new actor, we must hold an audition around!

QUOTE

Barry Prima would be a good choice, tho perhaps we could ask younger actor to play as GM
The rest of these actors are perfect

Wah thank you mas maja !
Do you have their pix?
I heard Hayam Wuruk was very handsome.



I think the candidate just Barry Prima

^^ Great Idea!

Ajie Massaid ? Reza's ex husband ? But adjie is a man
I think Ferdi Nuril would be great as Hayam Wuruk, his face so javanese.

sorry salah look up again its supposed to be Masayu Anastasia I got mixed up

You're welcome....

Pix... ntar cari....
But if you looking for face of ancient Java kings, you should go to National Museum, many arcas (statue) of gods from Mataram, Singhasari, and Majapahit period usually also serve as portrait of the King.

Hayam Wuruk IS a handsome young man. The book Negarakertagama confirm how handsome, manly and powerful the emperor was. His mother, queen Thribhuwanottunggadewi Jayawishnuwardhani is also famous for her beauty. But he's not that bulky and big as Gajah Mada. Quite ideal height and physic. His personality is quite calm, even more likely to be a shy or timid boy. According to the story, the king also an accomplished dancer, also good in drawing in his childhood and teenage years. When he performed the sacred mask-dance, many people are overwhelmed by the beauty of the dance.
For modern standard maybe the emperor is sounds 'gay' , (considering many modern day dancers are...., you know..) but it's quite normal for royalties men in that era to love dancing, to create it or perform it.
He's quite an artist. That's why he can easily appreciate and even falling for the painting of beautiful Dyah Pitaloka.

But the fabled beauty is Sundanese royal family. The royal family of Sunda are famous for their beauty, (men and women) for generations; light, clear and smooth skin, big eyes and thick dark eyebrows, black jet wavy hair, red lips. This physical feature almost common in Sundanese royalties descends even found today. Rosa, Paramitha Rusady, and late Nike Ardilla has ancient noble Sunda royalty blood in them. Mereka masih ningrat, while Dessy Ratnasari has that typical Sunda beauty, maybe if traced her ancestor, we'll find ancient lineage too.

In ancient Sunda, the succession of royal lineage also considered the physical features... , the charisma, the magical bearings,healthy body, and offcourse physical attraction and beauty. During Galuh era there story that the firstborn son of Galuh king is considered unworthy to be a king just because he got no teeth (ompong) thus make him ugly.... . So the throne is awarded to his handsome younger brother.

^^ You Ignored my Post

The Movie Name should be



The Story Should REAALLY focus on Majapahit and The Founding,The Glory,The War,The Love Story and then with Gajah Mada vanishing from his mountain retirement house and he was never seen again...as the Ending. Melacca should be ignored/Untold like scopion King they don't put Egypt

2 Hrs

The Cast:

Barry Prima is Too Old! I saw him in Keluarga Cemara last time and he looks

Princess Dyah Pitaloka Citraresmi => No! Not Dian Sastro is already too overrated udah males Feby Febiola or Bunga or Masayu Anastasia

Hayam Wuruk => Indra Brugman the Best ! Nico is Overated Vj Evan or Chistian Sugiono is good. Anjasmara NO WAY Bosen!

Gajah Mada=> Ade Rai can't act, Jermy Thomas cuz he's already built, or Someone new, and Indegineous

Queen of Sunda (Mother of Dyah Pitaloka) =>Artika Sari Dewi

King of Sunda (Father of Dyah Pitaloka) = David Chalik or Adam Jordan

former Queen Thribhuwanottunggadewi (Mother of Hayam Wuruk) => Christine Hakim is ok

Patih Madu (the machmaker) => Didi Petet ok deh

Patih Anepaken (Sundanese brave general) => Adjie Pangestu

Elephant was used in Java during many periods. 7 th century report on Tan Tan state mentions that the ruler used elephant s for long distance.

See also this Dutch illustration 1600's ( Commelin ), Tuban.




Far longer? Thats the classic view, but nowadays most experts think that the mainland coastal regions were settled in the first millenium BC , from seadirection. Sometimes they went more inland via river mouths.

Interestingly the Chinese Funan legend, might hints to incursions from southern islands too. Many internetversions are based on below :

"According to Kang Tai, the first king of Funan was a certain Huntien, that is Kaundinya, who came either from India, Malay peninsula or the Southern Islands . This king , having dreamed... " ( Coedes, Ind, states SEA p. 37).

Coedes gave classically given his own view by adding India himself, but the 2 oldest Chinese accounts say he was from a place overseas, south of Funan, more than 5000 li (3000 km) to the south east of India. From there Huntien sailed on merchantships to Funan, settled and became the first king after some violent conflict.( Pelliot Le Fou-Nan sec. edition).

Anyway, the Huntien story is for big part legend, but we know for sure that Chams sailed from Borneo to Mekong-Vietnam coasts in fist mill. BC and made many maritime settlements and a bit inland. Maybe coincedence but Borneo is south of Funan, overseas and some 3300 Km south east of India.

For me, Cham directly came from Yunnan down to Mekong River and settle there. That why they are Hindu not Buddha like people from Srivijaya empayer!


I find interesting fact about Patih Gajah Mada. Dunno wrong or rite.

But the cham people were malay.

Chinese reports made by embassies and pelgrims ( like I Ching who studied in Srivijaya). Tan Tan was Chinese name for some 6/7 th century citystate in Java. Some suggested Malay peninsula but Tan-Tan was east of Holing. Holing is generally agreed to be on Java. In fact, in the old records the name Java is connected to it.

Local records /inscription etc prevail above visitor reports but in case elephants are mentioned, why not?



Name is maybe inspired by Gaja Madah of Majapahit. The latter surely did not make it to the 1400's though.

Yes Cham is Malay. What I mean that Cham doesn't sailed from Borneo to Viet. They go down from tibetan Plateu through Mekong river and settle there. I thinhk that because some Degar tribe which was Austronesian stock left behind at the central Highland of Vietnam.


Oh I see. I search through internet but couldn't find Tan Tan but fin Pan Pan but it situated in Malay Peninsular of Malaysia.


Yeah. Gaja Madah of Majapahit was Hindu rite. but that Gaja Madah from Kelantan at that time was Islam. There was very big different. I don't really believe that Gaja Madah from Kelantan since he was Hindu and Kelantan was Islamic country since early 10th century.

Payudara besar.

Majapahitans, thank you for starting this thread. I like.
As a son of glorious Srivijaya, I feel close affinity with you, son of Majapahit. (Do I sound grandiose like Siri now? Hehe, joking na khab)

My ancestors got kicked out of Sumatra by your ancestors. Then Siri's ancestors tried to bully my ancestors on the Malay peninsula. That's why I'm happy we can now all be friends
I'll post more serious stuff later.

If that Majapahit movie gets made, it'd be funny to Siti make a cameo appearance as a slave-girl or something, hasil pulangan perang.

OOT Kan udeh gue bilang, belakangan ini gue rada 'endutan......
Kenapa liat toket gue...? napsu yah....? wha..ha..ha



Aduh..., jangan nangis ya cup.. cup...



The Majapahit era quite long and colorful you know. 2 hour movie wouldnt adequate to cover the entire length of Majapahit era.

The higlight periods is:
1. The emergence of Majapahit. The era of Raden Wijaya (grandfather of Hayam Wuruk), the founder of Majapahit kingdom. The story quite interesting, incorporated the scene when King Kertanegara of Singhasari humiliated Mongol's envoy. The Jayatwang of Kediri rebelion, fleeing of Raden Wijaya, and Kubilai Khan Mongol invasion. Then closed with the coronation of Raden Wijaya. The Princess Gayatri story, etc. I guess this part can be a single movie.

2. The Rebellion and Internal Intrics. The era of Jayanagara, Son of Raden Wijaya from Malayu Princess. Jayanagara ill treatments of his stepmothers and sepsisters, etc. He's a bad behaviour tyrant, etc. The rebelions occured from many of once loyal allies of the late King Kertarajasa Jayawardhana (Raden Wijaya).

Also the first rising of Gajah Mada career as one of Bhayangkara royal guard elite. Guarding the king while the rebel Nambi took over the capital city. This young Gajah Mada story quite similar with the Three Musketeers story. Majapahit Bhayangkara = French Musketeers. Elite Royal guard of the King. But actually Gajah Mada put his loyalty to Princess Thribhuwanottunggadewi (she'll be the mother of Hayam Wuruk), beautiful, brave, and intelligent lady but put in to exile by Jayanegara who worying that the Princess (step sister) will took over the throne.

The bad attitude of the king risking the survival of this new kingdom. Many ministers believed that his sister, Princess Tribhuwana will reign better than Jayanagara. Jayanagara is well known of his flamboyant live and indulgence of beautiful women, even Nyi Mada (wife of Gajah Mada) and the beautiful wife of Tanca (Tanca is royal physician/doctor) is caugt the attention of Jayanagara and...., invited (with force) to Kaputren (kinda Harem... ). Then (according to rumors) Gajah Mada making plot to incite Tanca vengeful anger and jealousy, then Tanca kill the king during surgery. But Gajah Mada 'cleverly' blame Tanca, before Tanca speak anything, Gajah Mada stab him....

3. The reign of Tribhuwanottungadewi Jayawishnuwardhani. Mark the consolidation of the empire. The queen successfully ends many rebelions provinces in East Java. Sumpah Palapa, the oath took by Gajah Mada to unified Nusantara Archipelago under one reign of Majapahit Empire is happen during her reign. Gajah Mada won the trust of the Queen and become Prime Minister. The relation of Gajah Mada and the Queen Tribhuwanottunggadewi is quite close. (Supiciously like Anakin Skywalker and Queen Amidala... but that's just juicy rumors tho..) She understand and accomodate Gajah Mada ambition. The conquest of Bali is happen in Tribhuwanottunggadewi's reign.

4. The reign of Emperor Hayam Wuruk, The Zenith of Majapahit Empire. After the death of Empress Dowager that have become a Buddhist nun, Gayatri Rajapatni (wive of Raden Wijaya; mother of Tribhuwana; grand mother of Hayam Wuruk). Tribhuwana must step down because she only reigning in the place of Gayatri Rajapatni. So the young prince is crowned as the new emperor. The western naval campaign begin to dominate th remnant of Srivijaya, Malayu, Temasek, Ligor, Tamiang, Langkasuka, Peurelak, Pase, Tanjungpura, Brune etc. Followed by eastern naval campaign to Banjar, Gowa, Sulawesi, Timor, Hutan Kadali (now Buru island), Molluccas, Wanin (Papua..?), etc.

Then the sad romance of Pasunda Bubat (you'all have know the story). . The tragic death of Princess Dyah Pitaloka of Sunda on Bubat square. Then the sunset of Gajah Mada career. Leaving Majapahit in the height of glory, the zenith of their power and influence. The end. This is my favourite period of Majapahit.

And later there's Paregreg war, marking the weakening of Majapahit because of internal conflics. Malacca and Demak era is waaay near the end of Majapahit empire, so if we want to tell the story about first 4 period of Majapahit, both Malacca and Demak are not exist yet.

Each of this 4 periods can be 4 single movies.....



She'll be perfect to play Dara Jingga or Dara Petak, two Malayu princess bought from Malayu as tribute of Pamalayu expedition led by Singhasari. And later become the Queen and the mother of Majapahit second king, Jayanagara. But that is the 1st period above, not the Hayam Wuruk's era.

Gajah Mada in this period (Bubat incident) WAS an old man.....
Jadi cukup cocok.
Ayo buka casting lagi.... siapa yah, mature but quite big or well built....
Emang Ade Rai nggak cocok..., Ga bisa acting, gue cuma iseng aja...



Gue tetep kekeuh, sama Dian Sastro ajah.....
Aktingnya juga pasti bagus......
Sebenernya yang cocok sih Dessy Ratnasari waktu muda.... (waktu jadi Olga itu lho), kalo sekarang ketuaan....

Febby...? bukan muka Sunda-Jawa tuh...., tetep kayak Menado atau Batak cantik.
Masayu...., bole lah, tapi dia bukan kaliber Dian....

Indra Brugman as Hayam Wuruk, actingnya dia emang bagus, tapi kok kenapa menurut gue kurang cocok yah....?
Sebenernya sih yang tampangnya Jawa banget yah si Anjas itu, tapi dia kan si idiot Cecep...!
Chistian Sugiono boleh lah.....,
But Hayam Wuruk must gave silent calm mysterious charisma, mukanya harus cakep, cool, tapi matanya tajam, agak sedih dan kesepian, kayak si Rangga di AADC. Emang sih jadinya terlalu bule....
Ayo masukan lagi..., siapa dong....?

Kalo perlu kita bikin Majapahit the series, biar bisa tandingi Jang Geum, Jewel In The Palace

Kan ceritanya gak kalah ama Jang Geum

Majapahitans, could you tell us about the victory of Raden Wijaya (founder of Majapahit) against the Mongol invasion ordered by Kublai Khan?

Gue stuju tuh sama mbak haqine: Fedi Nuril could be the candidate for Hayam Wuruk, or if not Fedi, we could ask Paundrakarna! he's quiet handsome, a true prince of Java

I agreeee!!Dian Pramitha Sastrowardoyo should be Diah Pitaloka, alhough she's javanesee and not sundanesse.
Hayam Wuruk...how about Tora Sudiro?He's javanesse. Or that Tommy Tjokro guy from MetroTV, he has the genuine javanesse face.
Gajah Mada should be someone with big body, but not flabby!He should be strudy and looks strong. Hmm...I don't know who fits that description, but auditions should help.

But, why is the Princess name "Diah Pitaloka"?As far as I know, there's no actual record on her name. In fact, there's no actual record on the name of the King, the Queen or the Kingdom!

Another thing:Do you think this story is the reason why javanesse and sundanesse hate each other. I mean, it's nothing hostile nor serious, but in fact, I've heard some bad things from my sundanesse friends about javanesse people. And vice-versa is also true. Of course, it's nothing biggie. If they REALLY hate each other, there won't be half-breed like Majapahitans, right?

After Singhasari drove Srivijaya influence out of Java altogether in 1290, King Kertanegara launch a naval campaign; the Pamalayu expediton to Malayu-Srivijaya, in Sumatra. King Kertanegara seems wants to build Singhasari as a regional maritime empire, just like Srivijaya has done before; controling sea trade routes from China to India.

The rising power, influence, and wealth of Javan Singhasari came to the attention of Kublai Khan of Yuan dynasty in China. Moreover Singhasari has formed alliance with Champa. Both Java and Champa are cautious of Mongol expansion and raids to neighboring states, like the raid of Bagan (Pagan) in Burma. Kubilai Khan sent emissaries demanding tribute from Java.
Kertanegara, last ruler of the Singhasari kingdom, refused to pay tribute. In the audition throne room of Singhasari court, King Kertanegara humiliated Khan by scarring and hurt Meng Ki's face, one of Mongol's envoy (some source even says the King cut the envoy's ear himself). The envoy return to China with the answer of Javan king written on his face; the scar .
Enraged by this humiliation and disgrace put upon his envoy, Khan sent a massive 1000 ship of punitive retaliation expedition which arrived off the coast of Tuban, Java in 1293.

Kertanegara seems to put too much emphasize on foreign affair rather than domestic one, he didn't realize a rebellion of former Kediri royal lineage are brewing homeward.

The Kediri (Gelang-gelang) army attack Singhasari from two directions, north and south. The king who only realize the northern invasion, has sent Raden Wijaya, his son in-law to vanquish the rebellion. The northern attack was put on bay, but southern one were successfully kept in stealth until they reach and sack the unprepared Kutaraja capital city. Jayakatwang had usurped and killed Kertanagara during the Tantra sacred ceremony, thus bring the end of Singhasari kingdom.

Learning the fall of Kutaraja Singhasari to Kediri, Raden Wijaya went to exile in the favor of the Regent (Bupati) Arya Wiraraja of Madura. With Arya Wiraraja patronage Raden Wijaya won favour from new monarch of Kediri who grant him permission to open new settlement north of mount Arjuna, the Tarik forest. In this wilderness Wijaya find lots of bitter Maja fruit, so this place called Majapahit, a future capital of the empire.

By the time the Mongol naval forces arrive on Java north coast (near Tuban), Raden Wijaya cleverly finds the opportunity to overthrow Jayakatwang of Kediri by using Mongol's hands.
Allied himself with the Mongols against Jayakatwang and, once Jayakatwang was destroyed, he turned to attack Mongol army. Forced his Mongol allies to withdraw from the isle after he launched a surprise attack.

The huge Mongol Army in confusion find themself surrounded by enemies in dangerous hostile land. It was the last time for the monsoon sea-wind to depart for home, otherwise, they would have had to wait for another six months on a totally hostile island. So Mongols had to withdraw to their ships and head back to China. Prince Wijaya successfully drove Mongols forces to the sea.

Then the clever victor, Prince Wijaya ascended the throne as Kertajasa Jayawardhana, the first king of Majapahit on November 1293 AD.

Trivia Quiz:

1. In this whole wide world's history, there's only three nations had successfully hold and kick back the world dominating, massive, "invincible" Mongol forces. Please name those 3 nations!

2. The so called 'yellow race with narrow eyes' invasion to Southeast Asia (esp. Java) has been foreseen and predicted centuries before, by a psychic Javanese King.
What is the name of that King with extraordinary gift of pshycic talents....?

3. Actually this 'yellow' invasion is proven has happened twice in Javan history.... Name those two 'yellow' invasions.....!
Those two 'yellow peril' but short period is destined to be "pre-requisite" for the formation of free and unified empire/nation. What empire and nation is that....?

Those who successfully answer these question, is a true history-freak . He/she will receive my eternal admiration

Thanks you,... thats very interesting posts Mas , let me take a shot at the quiz…
reading from your previous posts and some googling, here are some probable answers:


1. Beside Majapahit the other 3 nations were : China, Japan (1274/1281) and possibly Dai Viet (North Vietnam)


2. That prophet-king was none other than Jayabaya the ruler of Kediri kingdom (1135-1157)

3. The two so called "yellow invasions" foretold by Jayabaya were of course :
A). The Mongol invasion in 1293 during Raden Wijaya era that led to the formation of the great Majapahit Kingdom/unified Nusantara and
B) The Japanese occupation in 1942-1945 that led to the formation of a free NKRI


And here is my jumbled comment :

Saya ngobrol dengan seorang pak dosen dari Bdg dia bilang penyajian sejarah kita masih datar, kurang berelung dan kurang berorientasi kepada pemecahan masalah.

Misalnya bagaimana meningkatkan metoda pembelajaran sejarah kita dari pengisian daya memori jangka pendek seperti menghafalkan nama2 dan tanggal peristiwa2 ke yg lebih fungsional seperti mentradisikan belajar nilai sosial dari kesalahan sejarah (supaya jangan mengulanginya) dan
perbaikan sistem pembelajaran nilai-nilai sosial yang secara perlahan dapat mengubah tatanan berpikir ke arah yang lebih terbuka, kritis, dan bijaksana.

...dan juga sejarah umumnya ditulis oleh pemenang yah dan yang kalah jarang mendapatkan kesempatan menuliskan versinya.

China is usually not included if we mean repelling invasion. I think Egypt should be there. So it would be Java, Japan , Egypt. Vietnam can be added too.

Something in honour to the king with foresight :



These quizes are nice.

Aww...I wanna answer too. But then again, I'm not really a history freak...

Nice answers...., but for the first questions, out of three only Japan fits the question.
Kaifeng of Southern Song China has fallen to Mongol Horde. Even Kublai Khan create new Yuan dynasty in China, a foreign regime dynasty in Han Chinese history together with Qing of Manchus.

The right answer is Tony L's answer
1. Java (now Indonesia, clever and cunning Prince Wijaya who later set the base for Majapahit empire)
2. Japan (but it was nature who destroy Mongol's fleets, Typhoon, the wind of gods; Kamikaze)
3. Egypt (Malmelukes warrior of Egypt who kickback Mongols from Egypt). Correct me if I was wrong, but is it Ibn Taimiyah, the hero who liberated Ad Dhimasq (Damascus) from Mongol's horde....?

The other two is perfect answer..... Clever Girl.....