Episode 017: Air Mata Batara Guru

Story DNA

Genre
folk tale
Tone
melancholy
Themes
loneliness and isolation, the burden of leadership, the search for companionship, divine purpose and destiny
Plot Summary
Batara Guru, a divine being, visits a kingdom to find a consort but feels no connection and returns to Earth, burdened by loneliness. He confides in a wise crocodile and endures days of profound solitude in the wilderness, eventually weeping uncontrollably. His tears reach the heavens, prompting his divine parents to discuss his suffering as a necessary trial for true leadership. Though still sad, Batara Guru holds onto a nascent hope for future happiness and companionship, understanding his difficult journey has just begun.

In Pertiwi's celestial kingdom, expectations hung heavy. Batara Guru arrived, a divine being burdened by loneliness no earthly crown could alleviate. His Aunt, vibrant, greeted him: "Batara, ready to find your consort?" The formal setting made him uneasy.

"I wish to meet all princesses," Batara Guru replied politely, "but I must consult my father first." He watched consorts pass, none capturing his eye. Duty versus unawakened feelings brewed within him.

Batara Guru politely excused himself. "I must return to Earth; duties await." His form shrank, despite his Aunt and Another Relative subtly trying to keep him. He felt relief to depart.

By the shore, The Crocodile, an ancient, tranquil presence, awaited him. "How goes it, Master?" the creature asked. Batara Guru sighed, solitude pressing. "I only feel lonely, hope receded," he whispered against lapping waves. "Solitude presses down, Master, even upon the divine."

Back on Earth, Batara Guru sought refuge in the untamed wilderness. Days bled into nights, marked by chill and gnawing emptiness. He endured cold, hunger

English translation — 168 words — Canon score: 35/100

Characters in this Episode

Batara Guru (protagonist) Sinau Toja (supporting) Lindrong Talaga (minor) Gururesellet (supporting) Buaya (supporting) Datu Palinge' (supporting) Patoto'e (supporting)