By: Arman Yurisaldi
Ngabehi Akadikoen Ronodihardjo traveling to the district of Rogojampi in a horsedrawn carriage. Accompanied by his loyal driver, Dul Syukur, and his wife, Raden
Ajeng Oeloepi, the journey is steeped in tension and foreboding, especially following
the mysterious death of the previous assistant district head, Raden Soewarto. The
atmosphere is thick with unease, compounded by the eerie presence of an old,
dilapidated house that is to be their new residence—a house rumored to have been
haunted.
On April 4, 1931, the Rogojampi Sugar Factory hosts an annual sugarcane
grinding event, celebrated with traditional dances and rituals, showcasing the beauty
of local culture. Amidst the festivities, a dancer’s unexpected actions cause a stir,
leading to questions about her identity—was she Nyai Ireng? The incident raises
tensions between the mystical and the mundane, as Mas Ngabehi’s worries about his
family’s safety grow.
“Imperata Grass from Rogojampi” weaves a complex tale that
goes beyond mere storytelling, offering insights into the cultural dynamics of colonial
Indonesia while exploring universal themes of fear, courage, and the enduring power
of the past. The characters’ struggles and triumphs become a mirror for readers,
prompting them to consider the legacies they carry and the stories yet to unfold in
their own lives
Add a Comment