Dewi Godarwari: The Return of Life Through Water

In the heart of Bali, hidden behind the mist and green peaks of Mount Agung, there was a prosperous and peaceful kingdom. It was known for its fertile soil, bountiful harvests and clear rivers. The king of this kingdom was King Gunung Agung, a wise leader who was loved by his people. He had a very beautiful and graceful daughter, Dewi Godarwari.

Dewi Godarwari (Source: Personal Collection)

Dewi Godarwari was not only known for her beauty, but also for her extraordinary ability to manage water sources. She was the goddess who ruled over springs, rivers and rain, maintaining the balance and abundance of water that was vital to the life of the kingdom. Her presence was a blessing to her people, for with enough water flowing, their farmlands were always fertile and harvests were always bountiful.

One day, however, the kingdom's fortunes changed. The rainy season that usually came regularly began to disappear. The rains that were supposed to cool the earth and fertilize the soil became very rare. The rivers that used to flow swiftly now left only a murky and meager stream. Springs that were once abundant now began to dry up. Fertile lands turned into arid deserts, and famine began to haunt the people.

The situation after the kingdom was hit by a water crisis. (Source : Personal Collection)

Seeing the suffering of his people, King Mount Agung was very worried. He summoned his advisors and priests to find a solution. After a long meeting, they agreed that only Godarwari could solve this crisis. With great respect, they sent messengers to Mount Agung to beg Godarwari to come down from the peak and save their kingdom.

The journey to the top of Mount Agung was a challenging one. The steep paths and cold air made the journey grueling. However, the King's messengers persevered and finally reached Godarwari. They sincerely pleaded with Godarwari to come down from the mountain and help solve the water crisis plaguing the kingdom.

Goddess Godarwari accepted the king's envoy's request. (Source: Personal Collection)

Godarwari listened attentively to their place. She felt sad to see the suffering of her people. Without hesitation, Godarwari decided to come down and help them. She knew that her presence in the drought-stricken land would bring new hope and improve the situation.

Before descending, Godarwari summoned all the water guardian spirits and supernatural beings who assisted her. She asked for their help to start this rescue mission. With their power, Godarwari created thick clouds and began to rain for the first time after months of drought. This rain was the first boon to the arid land, and slowly, the parched land began to come back to life.

However, Godarwari realized that simply bringing back the rain would not be enough. She had to ensure that a proper irrigation system and awareness of the importance of water was instilled in the people. She decided to hold a grand ceremony in the center of the village and enlisted the help of all the residents. Dewi Godarwari led the ritual with great grace and taught the people how to take care of their springs and irrigation systems.

A big ceremony was held. (Source: Personal Collection)

During the ceremony, Godarwari explained how important it was to maintain a balance between humans and nature. She showed them how to build proper irrigation channels, as well as methods to keep the springs clean and preserved. She taught them about the subak system, which is a traditional Balinese irrigation system that uses water channels to ensure equitable distribution of water throughout the agricultural area.

The people were deeply impressed by Dewi Godarwari's teachings. They realized that the crisis was not just about water shortages, but also about how they relate to their environment. Godarwari reminded them that in order to protect the water source, they had to protect the environment around them - the land, the forests, and everything that affected the water cycle.

Starting to form terraces. (Source: Personal Collection)

With renewed vigor and Dewi Godarwari's guidance, the people began working together to rebuild damaged irrigation channels and clean up the springs. They built terraces on the hillsides to prevent soil erosion and ensure water could be absorbed properly. They also started new practices to maintain soil and water sustainability.

Over time, their efforts paid off. The once arid land is now fertile again, and harvests are as abundant as before the crisis. The rivers flowed freely, the springs were clear, and the people lived in peace and prosperity. The people were very grateful to Godarwari, and as a form of respect, they continued to celebrate ceremonies and make offerings at every spring and water source.

Dewi Godarwari returned to her residence. (Source : Personal Collection)

Godarwari, after ensuring that all was well and the people had learned from the experience, returned to the top of Mount Agung. Although she returned to her high abode, she left behind a profound lesson about the importance of maintaining harmonious relationships between humans and nature.

The legend of Dewi Godarwari is now an integral part of Balinese culture and tradition. Every rainy season, the Balinese remember the story of Godarwari and pray that she will continue to bless their land with abundant water and prosperity. They understand that by maintaining a balance with nature, they will continue to receive blessings and protection from the Goddess of Water Godarwari.

The story of Godarwari is not just folklore, but also a profound teaching about human responsibility towards their environment. Through this legend, Balinese people learn to respect and care for natural resources, and understand the importance of balance in the ecosystem. And as bequeathed by Dewi Godarwari, they continue to maintain harmony with nature and ensure that their land remains fertile and lives prosper.