The five-star resort has partnered with the Samsara Living Museum to provide an exclusive look into the wisdom of the Majapahit Kingdom’s golden era, marking a unique collaboration.
Embracing the ethos of unity in diversity under the 2024 ‘Powerful Indonesia: Bhinneka Tunggal Ika’ initiative, The Apurva Kempinski Bali introduces the Bhinneka Tunggal Ika Lontar Exhibition in collaboration with the Samsara Living Museum. Running from April 3 to May 31, 2024, this exhibition showcases Indonesia’s literary legacy through ten ancient manuscripts meticulously preserved from the Majapahit Kingdom’s golden era.
The Bhinneka Tunggal Ika Lontar Exhibition is a pioneering endeavor, unveiling a collection of manuscripts passed down through generations and safeguarded by the Samsara Living Museum. These include works attributed to the direct ancestors of Mpu Tantular, a prominent scholar and advisor to King Hayam Wuruk during the 14th century Majapahit era.
Central to the exhibition is the ancient Lontar manuscript named Kakawin Sutasoma (Mpu Tantular, 1365-1389), renowned for introducing the phrase ‘Bhinneka Tunggal Ika,’ which remains Indonesia’s national motto. Alongside this renowned work, the exhibition presents manuscripts delving into various facets of human life, including social dynamics, relationships, spirituality, and our connection with nature. Dating back to 400 BCE, these manuscripts offer timeless insights, meticulously preserved and passed down through generations by individuals such as Ida Pedanda Ketut Buruan and Ida Pedanda Gede Made Buruan, representing the 13th and 16th generations of Mpu Tantular’s descendants.
The Bhinneka Tunggal Ika Lontar Exhibition premieres on April 3, 2024, at the Pendopo Lobby, featuring a mystical chanting performance of ‘Kakawin Sutasoma’ followed by an interactive talk show with esteemed speakers. These include the founders of Samsara Living Museum – Ida Bagus Made Gunawan and Ida Bagus Agung Gunarthawa, dedicated to preserving cultural values through their living museum in Bali. Also participating is Ayu Kartika Dewi, a special aide to the President of Indonesia and Managing Director of Indika Foundation, advocating for tolerance, diversity, and education.
Ida Bagus Agung Gunarthawa, Founder of Samsara Living Museum, expressed gratitude for the collaboration, aiming to deepen understanding of these manuscripts’ values. Vincent Guironnet, General Manager of The Apurva Kempinski Bali, highlighted the exhibition’s role in celebrating Indonesia’s diversity and preserving its heritage.
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