The Legend of Maung Panjalu: The Transformation of Two Twin Children
Situ Lengkong Panjalu is not just a picturesque destination; it is a hub for religious tourism and a treasure trove of historical tales and legends. Pilgrims, particularly from East Java, frequently visit this sacred site for its serene atmosphere and the fascinating stories it holds.
The Tale of Maung Panjalu
One of the most iconic legends of the Panjalu region in northern Ciamis Regency is the Maung Panjalu story. This tale speaks of two twin children who transformed into tigers and became the guardians of the Panjalu area.
When visiting Panjalu, you’ll notice its strong connection to tigers—”maung” in Sundanese. Visitors are greeted by two tiger statues at the entrance to Panjalu. Similar statues are found at Borosngora Park in Panjalu Square and the entrance to Nusa Gede, an island located in the middle of Situ Lengkong Panjalu.
The Origin of the Legend Maung Panjalu
Raden Agus Gunawan, a Panjalu Customary Leader, recounts that the story centers on two twin children: Bongbang Larang (the boy) and Bongbang Kancana (the girl). These twins are said to have become a black tiger and a white tiger after breaking their parents’ rules.
A Royal Beginning
According to the tale, a woman from the Pajajaran region married a man from the eastern region, who was later revealed to be a king. While pregnant, the woman traveled east to reunite with her husband.
Her journey halted in the Garahang, Panumbangan area (present-day Panjalu), where she gave birth to twins, Bongbang Larang and Bongbang Kancana. The twins grew up in Panjalu, where their story unfolded.
The Curse of the Clay Jar
The children’s parents forbade them from drinking water from a clay jar. However, curiosity got the better of them, and they drank from it anyway. As a result, the jar became stuck on their heads.
A wise man named Eyang Jabariah, also known as Aki Garahang, freed them by breaking the jar with a uniquely shaped kujang (a traditional Sundanese blade). This kujang is still ceremonially cleaned during the Nyangku tradition.
Transformation into Tigers
Though saved from the jar, the twins disobeyed yet another warning from their parents—to avoid playing in the kulah (natural spring pool). Tempted by the crystal-clear water, Bongbang Larang swam in the spring and emerged as a black tiger.
Seeing her brother’s transformation, Bongbang Kancana chose to swim as well, emerging as a white tiger.
The twins then vowed to remain in Panjalu to protect its descendants and preserve the region’s spiritual wisdom (kepanjaluan) as a sign of gratitude for being saved earlier.
The Deeper Meaning Behind the Legend
The Maung Panjalu legend teaches several moral lessons:
- Obedience to Elders: Disobedience to rules can lead to unforeseen consequences.
- Modern-Day Manners: Drinking directly from a jug or eating from a cooking pot symbolizes improper etiquette. Instead, food and drink should be served properly to show respect.
- Balance of Good and Evil: The black and white tigers symbolize the coexistence of good and evil in humanity.
Ilham Purwa, a cultural activist and lecturer at Universitas Galuh, adds, “The legend also reminds us of the importance of honoring the wisdom of our ancestors and understanding the historical significance of every place we visit.”
Discover the Legacy of Panjalu
If you’re visiting Situ Lengkong Panjalu, take time to appreciate its rich history and cultural heritage. The tale of Maung Panjalu is a reminder that legends are not just stories—they are lessons passed down through generations, teaching us about values, obedience, and balance in life.
