Pramodhawardhani facts for kids

Pramodhawardhani, also known as Çrī Kahulunnan or Çrī Sanjiwana, was an important queen in the 9th century. She was the wife of King Rakai Pikatan, who ruled the Mataram Kingdom in Central Java from 838 to 850. Pramodhawardhani was also the daughter of King Samaratungga, a powerful ruler from the Sailendra family.

Her marriage to Prince Pikatan was very important. It helped bring together two powerful families: her own Sailendra family, who were Buddhist, and Pikatan's Sanjaya family, who were Hindu. This marriage helped create peace and understanding between them.

Queen Pramodhawardhani's Achievements

Pramodhawardhani is famous for her role in building and supporting many Buddhist temples. She was involved in the official opening of the Borobudur temple, which is a very large and famous Buddhist monument.

Temples and Buildings

She also helped build several other Buddhist temples in the area known as the Prambanan Plain. These include smaller temples within the Sewu temple complex, as well as the Plaosan and Sajiwan Buddhist temples. The Sojiwan Buddhist temple, shown in the picture, is believed to be dedicated to her.

Sojiwan Buddhist temple, dedicated to Queen Sanjiwana, who is thought to be Pramodhawardhani.

Mentions in Ancient Writings

Pramodhawardhani's name appears in several ancient stone inscriptions. These inscriptions are like old records carved into stone. Some of the important ones are the Karangtengah inscription, the Tri Tepusan inscription, and the Rukam inscription.

Tri Tepusan Inscription

The Tri Tepusan inscription, from the year 842, talks about special "tax-free" lands. Queen Çrī Kahulunnan (Pramodhawardhani) gave these lands to help pay for and maintain a sacred place called Kamūlān Bhūmisambhāra. This sacred place is known today as the famous Borobudur temple.

Rukam Inscription

The Rukam inscription, from the year 907 CE, tells us about the restoration of Rukam village. This village had been badly damaged by a volcanic eruption. Nini Haji Rakryan Sanjiwana, who was Pramodhawardhani, helped restore it. The inscription also says that the people of Rukam village had to take care of a sacred building in a place called Limwung. This building is believed to be the Sajiwan temple.

Pramodhawardhani in Legends

Some people believe that Pramodhawardhani was the inspiration for the image of the goddess Durga in the Prambanan temple. This idea comes from the old legend of Loro Jonggrang.