The Janggala Kingdom

 

The Janggala Kingdom was one of the early kingdoms in East Java, Indonesia, emerging during the 11th century. Here’s a detailed overview:

Background

• Period: Around the 11th century (established in 1045 AD).
• Location: Eastern Java, roughly covering the area around modern-day Surabaya and its surroundings.
• Origin: Janggala was formed after the division of the Airlangga Kingdom.
• King Airlangga (r. 1019–1042 AD) ruled the Kahuripan Kingdom and, upon abdicating, divided his kingdom into Janggala (east) and Kediri (west) to prevent succession conflicts between his heirs.

Political Structure

• Monarchy: Ruled by kings from Airlangga’s lineage.
• Capital: The exact location is debated, but it is thought to be around modern-day Buto, Surabaya.
• Relations: Janggala often had political rivalry and occasional alliances with Kediri.

Culture and Society

• Religion: Predominantly Hindu-Buddhist, influenced by earlier Javanese kingdoms.
• Economy: Based on agriculture, trade (especially coastal trade via Surabaya’s port), and tribute from surrounding areas.
• Art and Architecture: Likely similar to Kediri, with temple building (candi) and inscriptions, though fewer records survive.

Significance

• Janggala played an important role in East Java’s political dynamics and later merged with Kediri under King Kameswara in the 12th century, forming a stronger, unified kingdom.
• Its legacy is part of the historical foundation of East Javanese civilization, influencing culture, politics, and trade.

Timeline of Janggala Kingdom

Year / Period	King / Ruler	Major Events / Notes
1019–1042	Airlangga (Kahuripan Kingdom)	Ruled the united Kahuripan Kingdom; abdicated in 1042, divided the kingdom into Janggala (east) and Kediri (west).
1042–1052	Mapanji Garasakan (first king of Janggala)	Son of Airlangga; ruled the eastern part of Java.
1052–?	Larang	Continued consolidation of Janggala; limited historical records.
12th century	Kameswara (King of Kediri)	Eventually merged Janggala with Kediri to strengthen East Java politically.
Post-12th century	Janggala becomes part of unified Kediri Kingdom	Janggala loses its separate identity; integrated into Kediri’s territory.

Key Points

• Janggala was short-lived, lasting roughly 100 years as a separate kingdom.
• Its merger with Kediri was significant for creating a stronger East Javanese state.
• Historical sources mainly come from Javanese inscriptions and later chronicles like Pararaton.