Behold the statue of I Gusti Ngurah Made Agung. It stands proudly a testament to a courageous king.
This isn’t just any statue. This is a monument to I Gusti Ngurah Made Agung the seventh King of Badung. He ruled from 1902 to 1906. His reign ended in a dramatic and tragic event known as Puputan Badung.
The year was 1906. The Dutch colonial forces demanded compensation. They claimed the King’s people had stolen goods from a ship wrecked near Sanur Beach. King I Gusti Ngurah Made Agung refused. He chose death over dishonor. He and his people fought bravely. The battle was fierce. Thousands died including the King himself on September 20 1906. This selfless act became known as Puputan. It means a final fight to the death.
But this statue tells more than just a tale of war. I Gusti Ngurah Made Agung was a scholar too. He was a renowned Balinese writer. He penned works of high literary merit. His writings explore deep philosophical ideas. His legacy lives on in his writings as well as in this magnificent statue. The lontar the palm leaf manuscript he holds in the statue is a symbol of that dual legacy.
The statue stands near the Banjar Taensiat intersection. It is about 800 meters north of the Catur Muka statue. It’s located on Veteran Street. This street connects the Catur Muka statue to the I Gusti Ngurah Made Agung statue. Along this route you’ll find Puri Agung Satria. This is the residence of descendants from the Badung royal family. Nearby is Satria Market known as Bali’s largest bird market.
So as you gaze upon this statue remember more than just a battle. Remember the courage of a king. Remember the wisdom of a scholar. Remember the enduring spirit of I Gusti Ngurah Made Agung. His sacrifice ensured his place in Balinese history. He was awarded the title of National Hero posthumously in 2015. His legacy continues to inspire. The statue of I Gusti Ngurah Made Agung stands as a powerful reminder of this history.