Bung Karno's Mausoleum

Bung Karno's Mausoleum: Epicenter of National History and Spirituality in Blitar

Makam Bung Karno is a mausoleum complex for the Proclamator and first President of the Republic of Indonesia, Soekarno. Located in Bendogerit Village, Sananwetan District, Blitar City, East Java, this site is not just the final resting place of a great figure, but a symbol of national identity and a center for political pilgrimage for the Indonesian people.

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Historical Background and Controversy Over Location

Soekarno's death on June 21, 1970, at RSPAD Gatot Subroto, Jakarta, left a historical controversy regarding his burial location. In his will, Bung Karno actually wished to be buried under a shady tree in the Priangan area (West Java), or at least in a quiet place. However, the New Order Government under Soeharto decided to bury him in Blitar, citing the reason of being close to his mother's grave, Ida Ayu Nyoman Rai.

Politically, many historians assess the relocation to Blitar as an attempt at de-Soekarnoisasi by the regime at the time to distance the influence of Soekarno's figure from the center of power in Jakarta. The burial was carried out on June 22, 1970, through a state ceremony led by General Panggabean. Since then, Blitar, initially known as a small town, has become a focal point of national attention.

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Architecture: A Blend of Modernity and Javanese Tradition

The architectural style of Makam Bung Karno has undergone significant transformations over time. Initially, the tomb was very simple. Major changes occurred in 1978 through a large-scale renovation initiated by the government. The architecture of this site strongly carries the concept of Javanese Joglo, but it is combined with a touch of modernity.

The mausoleum complex is divided into three main zones that reflect the philosophy of human life: *Outer Courtyard*, *Middle Courtyard*, and *Main Courtyard (Cungkup)*. The main building that shelters Bung Karno's tombstone is called Astana Mulyo. This building is in the form of a typical Javanese Joglo with a three-tiered roof called Tajuk.

The building materials use high-quality materials such as Tulungagung marble and selected teak wood. The intricate carvings on the building's pillars reflect cultural acculturation, where traditional Javanese motifs blend with symbols of struggle. Inside the Cungkup of Astana Mulyo, there are three tombstones: Bung Karno is in the center, flanked by the graves of his father, R. Soekeni Sosrodihardjo, and his mother, Ida Ayu Nyoman Rai. Bung Karno's tombstone itself is made of black marble with the inscription: "Here rests Bung Karno, the Spokesperson for the Indonesian People."

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Historical Significance and Important Events

Makam Bung Karno is a silent witness to various historical events post-independence. Every approaching national moment, such as Independence Day on August 17th or Pancasila Birth Day on June 1st, this site becomes a center of attention. One unique historical fact is the tradition of "Political Pilgrimage." Almost all important figures in Indonesia, from subsequent presidents to movement activists, feel the need to visit this tomb to gain spiritual or political legitimacy.

The existence of this tomb also strengthens Blitar's position as the "Proclamator City." In the past, access to the tomb was restricted and heavily guarded by the military to prevent individual cults. However, with the advent of the Reform Era, access has been widely opened, and this site has developed into the number one historical tourism destination in East Java.

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Preservation and Development of the Library Complex

The Indonesian government consistently makes preservation efforts. One of the most visionary steps was the construction of the Bung Karno Library and Museum, inaugurated in 2004 by President Megawati Soekarnoputri. The addition of this facility transformed the site's status from a mere tomb to a center for historical study.

Restoration and building conservation are carried out periodically to protect the integrity of the marble and the wooden structure of the Joglo from weather damage. The surrounding area has now been arranged with a spacious pedestrian concept, lush gardens, and water ponds that provide a tranquil atmosphere for pilgrims.

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Cultural and Religious Dimensions

Makam Bung Karno holds a unique position in Indonesian culture. On one hand, it is a formal historical site, but on the other hand, it has a strong religious dimension. Many pilgrims come not only to learn history but also to pray for him in the tradition of "nyekar" or tahlilan.

The phenomenon of the "prayer well" or water around the tomb, often considered to bring blessings by some communities, shows how strong Bung Karno's figure is in mass psychology. Culturally, this tomb is a symbol of the unification of nationalism and spirituality, where national values are celebrated alongside religious values.

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Unique Historical Facts

There are several unique facts about this site that are rarely known to the public:

1. Glass Fence: During the New Order era, Bung Karno's tomb was temporarily enclosed with a thick glass fence to limit pilgrims' physical interaction with the tombstone. This fence was only completely removed after the regime change.

2. Bronze Statue: At the complex entrance, there is a bronze statue of Bung Karno sitting and reading a book, symbolizing his intellectual prowess.

3. Peace Gong: In this area, there is also a World Peace Gong as a symbol that Bung Karno's thoughts on international peace remain relevant to this day.

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Conclusion

Makam Bung Karno in Blitar is more than just a monument to death; it is a monument to life for great thoughts on independence, Marhaenism, and unity. With its magnificent architecture that remains rooted in Javanese tradition, this site continues to stand as a reminder to the younger generation of the dedication of a leader who devoted his entire life to Indonesia's sovereignty. The preservation of this site is a collective responsibility to ensure that the flame of Bung Karno's spirit never extinguishes on the Indonesian archipelago.