AJI SAKA

In ancient times, there was a kingdom called Medang Kamulan governed by a king named Prabu Dewata Cengkar, who was wild and fond of eating humans. Every day, the king ate a person brought to him by Patih Jugul Muda. A small portion of the people, worried and fearful, secretly fled to other regions.

In the village of Medang Kawit, there was a young man named Aji Saka, who was incredibly strong, diligent, and kind-hearted. One day, Aji Saka successfully helped an old man who was being beaten by two men. 

Old Man with voice trembling, “I owe you my life, young man. Those ruffians… they would have beaten me to death if you hadn’t stepped in.”

Aji Saka smiling gently, “There is no need for thanks. It was simply the right thing to do. But tell me, why did they attack you? You seem like a man who has seen much hardship.”

Old Man sighing deeply, “I am a refugee from Medang Kamulan, a kingdom now shrouded in darkness and fear. Our king, Prabu Dewata Cengkar, is a tyrant who feasts on the flesh of his own people. Every day, his advisor, Patih Jugul Muda, brings him a new victim. Those of us who could, fled, but many remain, living in terror.”

Hearing the story of Prabu Dewata Cengkar's savagery, Aji Saka decided to help the people of Medang Kamulan. 

“Such evil cannot be allowed to continue. The people of Medang Kamulan deserve peace, not tyranny. I will go to Medang Kamulan and put an end to this.” Aji Saka's expression turning serious.

Wearing a turban on his head, Aji Saka set out for Medang Kamulan.

The journey to Medang Kamulan was not smooth. Aji Saka had to battle for seven days and seven nights with the demon guardian of the forest because Aji Saka refused to become the demon's slave for ten years before being allowed to pass through the forest. However, because of his incredible strength, Aji Saka successfully avoided the bursts of fire from the demon. After Aji Saka prayed, a yellow ray of light from the sky struck the demon in the forest, and the demon died.

Aji Saka finally arrived in the quiet Medang Kamulan. At the palace, Prabu Dewata Cengkar was angry because Patih Jugul Muda had not brought him a human sacrifice.

Prabu Dewata Cengkar roaring, “Where is today’s offering, Jugul Muda? You dare defy me?”

Patih Jugul Muda stammering, “Forgive me, Your Majesty… There was no time…”

Aji Saka, stepping forward confidently, “Prabu Dewata Cengkar, I have come to offer myself as your next meal. But I have one condition.”

Aji Saka confronted Prabu Dewata Cengkar and offered himself to be eaten by the king in exchange for land the size of his turban.

Prabu Dewata Cengkar, eyes narrowing, “And what condition is that, foolish boy?”

“I ask only for a piece of land as wide as my turban. Measure it, and then you may have me.” Answer Aji Saka.

Prabu Dewata Cengkar smirking, “Very well, but know that your clever words will not save you from your fate.” 

He gestures for the measurement to begin. As the turban is unwrapped, it continues to stretch, expanding across the entire palace grounds and beyond. Prabu Dewata Cengkar’s expression turns to one of rage and fear.

Prabu Dewata Cengkar shouting, “What trickery is this? You dare deceive me?”

Aji Saka answer calmly, “It is not trickery, Prabu. It is justice. Your reign of terror ends here.”

While Prabu Dewata Cengkar raged, Aji Saka's turban created a strong wind that struck Prabu's body. A powerful wind begins to swirl, lifting Prabu Dewata Cengkar off his feet. The wind grows stronger, pulling the king towards the palace balcony.

Prabu Dewata Cengkar screaming in fear, “No! This cannot be!” 

With one final gust of wind, Aji Saka threw Prabu Dewata Cengkar's body. Prabu Dewata Cengkar is hurled into the sky, which fell into the southern sea and was then lost to the waves.

Aji Saka was then appointed as the King of Medang Kamulan. He brought his father to the palace.

Aji Saka addressing the people, “People of Medang Kamulan, today marks the beginning of a new era. No longer will we live in fear. Together, we will build a kingdom of peace, prosperity, and justice. Let this be a land where all are welcome, and where no one shall live in fear.”

Crowd cheering, “Long live King Aji Saka! Long live Medang Kamulan!”

Because of his fair and wise rule, Aji Saka led the Kingdom of Medang Kamulan into a golden era, a time when the people lived in peace, prosperity, and safety.