Template:Kurupati
Kurupati – (Raden) – Mahabharata
Within the world of wayang kulit (Javanese shadow puppetry), Kurupati is often portrayed as a symbol of insatiable ambition, jealousy, and the dangers of unchecked power.
Wayang Kurupati represents several potent themes:
• Unbridled Ambition: He is a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked desire and relentless pursuit of power regardless of moral consequences.
• Jealousy and Resentment: His envy of the Pandawas, especially their rightful position as heirs, drives his destructive actions.
• Abuse of Power: Kurupati symbolizes the corruption that comes with absolute power and the disregard for justice or the well-being of his subjects.
As the leader of the Kurawas, Kurupati represents the negative traits of his siblings. He is the embodiment of their greed, their envy of the virtuous Pandawas, and their relentless pursuit of dominion, no matter the cost.
Kurupati's ambition and desire for power fuel the central conflict of the Mahabharata. His schemes against the Pandawas, such as the infamous dice game where he wins their kingdom and humiliates their wife, Draupadi, ignite tensions and lead to the inevitable Kurukshetra War.
Despite being the primary antagonist, Kurupati is not always portrayed as a purely evil figure. Some wayang performances and interpretations highlight moments of doubt, internal struggle, and even the potential for redemption. The dalang (puppet master) can use Kurupati's character to explore the complexities of human ambition and its consequences.
Wayang Kurupati is a complex figure, reminding us of the destructive potential of blind ambition and unchallenged power. He challenges audiences to confront the darker aspects of human nature and the struggle between moral choices and selfish desires.
In the Wayang story, each puppet has two names, namely when he was young and after he became old. For example, Prabu Yudistira, who was named Puntadewa when he was young. Next is Wrekodara or Bratasena when he was young. Arjuna or Pamade when he was young, Nakula-Sadewa or Pinten-Tangsen when he was young. Prabu Baladewa or Kakrasana when he was young, Prabu Kresna or Nayarana when he was young. Prabu Salya or Narasoma when he was young. Finally also Adipati Karna or Suryaputra when he was young, Dewi Sumbadra or Rara ireng when she was young, Pendita Durna or Kumbayana when he was young, and Shakuni whose name was Harya Suman when he was young.
Source: History of Wayang Purwa - Hardjowirogo - PN Balai Pustaka - 1982
