Jakarta, IndonesiaSentinel.com — Airlangga, a key figure in the history of East Java, rose to power following the decline of the Mataram Kingdom. A descendant of the Isyana Dynasty, Airlangga’s family had moved the kingdom’s center from Central to East Java, making him the third generation after Mpu Sindok. His rule laid the foundations for the Kahuripan Kingdom, shaping the region’s political and spiritual landscape.
Airlangga was born to Sri Isanatunggawijaya and Sri Lokapala, uniting the royal lines of Mataram and the Warmadewa dynasty of Bali.
Despite his royal upbringing, Airlangga faced tragedy early in life. During his wedding, the Mataram Kingdom was attacked by Wurawuri, an ally of the Sriwijaya Kingdom, leading to what became known as the “Pralaya” in 1016 CE. The attack devastated the capital, killed many, including his bride, and marked the end of Mataram Kingdom’s dominance.
Barely escaping with his life, Airlangga fled into the wilderness with his loyal servant, Narottama. This episode is chronicled in the Pucangan Inscription, a key historical document written in ancient Javanese. It describes how Airlangga, although inexperienced in battle, survived the attack.
His journey of survival was seen as divinely guided, as the inscription describes him as an incarnation of the god Vishnu, blessed with divine protection from the forces of destruction.
In exile, Airlangga took refuge in the forests near Mount Arjuno, living the life of an ascetic. Clad in tree bark and eating what the hermits ate, Airlangga devoted himself to prayer and worship.
His dedication won the favor of the gods, who saw him as a future protector and restorer of Java. Under their guidance, Airlangga eventually emerged from his seclusion, ready to rebuild what was lost and establish the Kahuripan Kingdom, which rose from the ashes of the Mataram Kingdom.
Airlangga’s reign marked the rebirth of stability and prosperity in Java, as he restored temples, rebuilt cities, and laid the groundwork for future dynasties.
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His legacy as a protector and reformer continues to be remembered in Javanese history, closely tied to the fall of the Mataram Kingdom and his divine ascent to power.
(Ray)
