Bangkal Temple, Treasures of Brantas River, & Revival of East Java History

Summary

The video delves into the fascinating story of the Brantas River in East Java, Indonesia, highlighting its dual nature as both a source of prosperity and a cause of disaster. The script explores its historical significance, linking it to ancient temples, treasures, and kingdoms, with a particular focus on Bangkal Temple in Mojokerto. Through a journey along the river, the video uncovers the wealth of artifacts and the complex relationship between the river's power, agricultural fertility, and cultural heritage. It emphasizes the importance of preserving these treasures while reflecting on the true meaning of wealth and tranquility.

Takeaways

• 😀 The Brantas River divides East Java and has been a vital trade route for centuries, connecting inland regions to the international port of Hujung Galuh in Surabaya.
• 😀 The river has been both a source of prosperity and destruction, with its floods causing significant damage to villages and holy places, but also fostering the growth of ancient empires.
• 😀 King Airlangga, in the 11th century, demonstrated leadership by mobilizing society to build a dam and reduce the destructive floods along the Brantas River.
• 😀 The Brantas River is also famous for its hidden treasures, attracting treasure hunters due to artifacts and historical sites scattered along its banks.
• 😀 The Bangkal Temple in Mojokerto Regency, despite its sad condition due to flooding, holds key significance in the history of the Brantas River and is linked to these treasures.
• 😀 Bangkal Temple is of a unique architectural style called 'Misra,' combining red brick and andesite stone, with intricate Kirtimukha and tapak dara carvings believed to offer protection from dangers.
• 😀 The presence of statues of Ganesha and other divine symbols along the Brantas River suggests an ancient belief in protecting against danger, particularly in relation to the river's ferocity.
• 😀 The temple's design, including forked stairs and pseudo-kirtimukhas, suggests a connection to the Majapahit era, offering insight into the cultural heritage of the region.
• 😀 The Brantas River's historical importance is reflected in various ancient Javanese kingdoms, including Kanjuruhan, Medang, and Majapahit, all vying for control of its fertile basin and trade routes.
• 😀 The Brantas River is also home to valuable artifacts, including krises, spears, and other relics, often found by treasure hunters who dive in its waters, though their recovery must be reported to authorities per cultural heritage laws.

Q & A

What is the significance of the Brantas River in East Java?

The Brantas River is the second longest river in Java and played a crucial role in connecting inland areas of East Java with the international port of Hujung Galuh in Surabaya. It was vital for trade, agriculture, and even military movements during the classical Javanese era.

How did King Airlangga respond to the flooding of the Brantas River?

King Airlangga responded to the floods by demonstrating leadership, mobilizing local communities, and overseeing the construction of a dam at Wringin Sapta to manage the river’s overflow. This effort restored agricultural productivity and stabilized the Brantas River trade route.

Why is Bangkal Temple significant in the context of the Brantas River?

Bangkal Temple is believed to be linked to the treasures of the Brantas River. The temple’s unique design, including the presence of tapak dara (a protective symbol), and its location along the river, suggest it may have been built to protect or store the wealth connected to the river.

What makes Bangkal Temple unique compared to other temples in the region?

Bangkal Temple is unique because of its architecture, which includes a mix of red brick and andesite stone. It also features distinct decorative elements like pseudo-kirtimukhas and tapak dara symbols, which are believed to have been used for protection against danger.

What is the meaning of the tapak dara symbol found on Bangkal Temple?

The tapak dara symbol is a protective sign, believed to ward off dangers like floods, crocodiles, enemy soldiers, and other threats. Its widespread presence on Bangkal Temple is thought to indicate the temple’s role in safeguarding the surrounding area from the risks associated with the Brantas River.

What kind of artifacts are typically found in the Brantas River?

Artifacts commonly found in the Brantas River include krises, spears, and other weapons. These are often believed to be remnants from ancient rituals, submerged items, or even lost treasure from ships that sank during various conflicts.

What historical events are associated with the Brantas River that contributed to its importance?

The Brantas River played a significant role in the classical Javanese period, with various kingdoms vying for control over its trade routes. The river also witnessed major historical events, such as the destruction of Mongol warships by Majapahit forces and the sinking of VOC ships, contributing to its legendary status.

What is the cultural significance of the Bangkal Temple’s design?

The design of Bangkal Temple is culturally significant because it combines traditional Javanese architectural features, such as two-level construction, symbolic niches for deities, and protective motifs. These elements reflect the temple’s religious and protective purpose, potentially linked to safeguarding the treasures of the Brantas River.

Why does Bangkal Temple still stand despite its damaged condition?

Bangkal Temple has managed to withstand the elements due to its strong foundation and the durable construction materials, like andesite stone. However, it remains in a deteriorating state due to frequent flooding and lack of restoration efforts, despite studies conducted to address its preservation.

What role did the Brantas River play in the rise and fall of Javanese kingdoms?

The Brantas River was a key factor in the prosperity of Javanese kingdoms such as Kanjuruhan, Medang, and Majapahit. Its strategic location allowed for trade and military defense, but control of the river also led to conflicts, such as wars between the kingdoms of Janggala and Kadhiri, and later the rise of Majapahit.