Babad Mengwi: The Upheaval of the Throne and the Dawn of Resurgence
The Babad Mengwi manuscript (Gedong Kirtya Collection No. Va. 1340/12), originally written on 66 palm leaves (lontar) in Old Javanese with Balinese script by I Gusti Putu Mayun, is a historical epic that records the rise and fall of the Arya dynasty's power on the Island of the Gods. This manuscript chronicles an extensive timeline, starting from the arrival of Sri Nararya Kresna Kapakisan and the golden era of the Gelgel Kingdom, to the emergence of political turmoils such as bloody rebellions and the Buleleng invasion that triggered the kingdom's collapse. Despite being fraught with intrigue, the diaspora of the royal family, and struggles over sacred heirlooms, this epic narrative ultimately culminates in a glorious resolution. Peace and the paramount glory of the Mengwi Kingdom were successfully restored under the wise leadership of Ida Cokorda Made Agung.
