Bali - Embracing the spirit of unity in diversity through the 'Indonesia Berdaya: Bhinneka Tunggal Ika' in 2024, Apurva Kempinski Bali launches Lontar Exhibition Bhinneka Tunggal Ika in collaboration with Samsara Living Museum. Available from April 3 to May 31, 2024, the exhibition showcases Indonesia's literary heritage through ten meticulously preserved ancient manuscripts from the golden era of the Majapahit Kingdom.
The Lontar Bhinneka Tunggal Ika exhibition marks the first of its kind, featuring a collection of manuscripts passed down from generation to generation and preserved by Samsara Living Museum, including manuscripts written by the direct ancestor of Mpu Tantular - a prominent scholar and advisor to King Hayam Wuruk during the Majapahit period in the 14th century.
At the core of the exhibition is an ancient Lontar named Menikah Sutasoma (Mpu Tantular, 1365-1389), famous for introducing the phrase 'Bhinneka Tunggal Ika', which remains Indonesia's national motto. Complementing this famous work, the exhibition features a collection of manuscripts that delve into the intricacies of human existence, exploring themes such as social dynamics, interpersonal relationships, spirituality, and our relationship with nature.
Dating back to 400 BC, these manuscripts offer timeless wisdom. They have been meticulously rewritten and preserved from generation to generation, thanks to the dedicated efforts of individuals such as Ida Pedanda Ketut Buruan and Ida Pedanda Gede Made Buruan, who represent the 13th and 16th generations of Mpu Tantular's descendants, respectively.
The Lontar Bhinneka Tunggal Ika exhibition officially debuted on April 3, 2024 at the Pendopo Lobby, beginning with a performance of the mystical 'Kakawin Sutasoma', followed by an interactive talk show featuring prominent speakers.
Panelists included the founders of Samsara Living Museum - Ida Bagus Made Gunawan and Ida Bagus Agung Gunarthawa, who have devoted themselves to preserving, promoting and maintaining the cultural values of ancestral heritage through a living museum located in Jungutan Village, Karangasem, Bali.
Also involved in the discussion was Ayu Kartika Dewi, a special aide to the President of the Republic of Indonesia and President Director of Indika Foundation, which seeks to foster a spirit of tolerance and diversity and advocates for education in Indonesia.