[Talk@ACM] From Majapahit to Bali - Adrian Vickers (Part 1 of 4)

About this video

• Video Title: [Talk@ACM] From Majapahit to Bali - Adrian Vickers (Part 1 of 4)
• Channel: Asian Civilisations Museum
• Speakers: Ingred Hansen, Adrian Vickers
• Duration: 00:18:53

Overview

This video is the first part of a four-part talk by Professor Adrian Vickers, co-organized by the Southeast Asian Ceramic Society and the Asian Civilisations Museum. Professor Vickers, an expert in Southeast Asian studies, discusses the Hindu kingdom of Majapahit, its historical context, and its influence, touching upon its geographical location, shift from Central to East Java, and the significance of its maritime nature. He also introduces the transition from earlier Javanese kingdoms to the emergence of Majapahit, referencing key historical texts and archaeological findings.

Key takeaways

• Introduction to Majapahit: The video begins by introducing Professor Adrian Vickers and the topic of the Majapahit kingdom, noting that while the name is known, there are many misconceptions about it.
• Majapahit's Maritime Nature: Unlike the inward focus often perceived in Javanese culture, Majapahit was a significant maritime polity, deeply connected to trade routes extending from the Spice Islands to India, Arabia, and China.
• Shift from Central to East Java: Around 929 AD, there was a major shift in power from the great kingdoms of Central Java (builders of Borobudur and Prambanan) to East Java. This shift's exact cause is debated, with theories including volcanic eruptions or ecological changes.
• Early East Javanese Kingdoms: Following this shift, kingdoms like Kadiri emerged in East Java, with rulers leaving inscriptions that provide insights into their history. King Airlangga of Kadiri is highlighted for his lineage and influence.
• The Founding of Majapahit: The kingdom of Majapahit was founded by Raden Wijaya around 1293, following a period of instability triggered by a Mongol expedition from China. The name "Majapahit" originates from a bitter fruit of the maja tree.
• Archaeological Challenges: The video points out that Majapahit's archaeological sites are more modest compared to Angkor Wat, and many temples are scattered across East Java, with much still to be discovered and studied.
• Key Historical Text: The Nagara Kertagama, a 14th-century poem written in Old Javanese, is identified as a crucial contemporary document that illuminates the history and extent of the Majapahit realm.