Putri Runduk

The Enigmatic Tale of Princess Runduk

Edisi Bahasa Indonesia: Putri Runduk

Folklore From North Sumatra

An oral tradition from North Sumatra, the legend of Putri Runduk, had been passed down for generations, each rendition altering elements to form a unique narrative. Believed to be the origin of Sibolga coastal art, Putri Runduk was the daughter of King Linggom from the Mursala Kingdom. Despite the king's 25-year marriage, they remained childless.

Adofo, a fugitive spared from beheading and discovered by Datuk Langit, appeared one day. Adofo foresaw that black magic hindered the empress's pregnancy, urging its elimination. A fisherman and his wife found the magic, rewarded under the condition of siblinghood should they have a child. Disappointed by the birth of a girl, King Linggom longed for a boy. Yet, the child's beauty assuaged his disappointment. Named Putri Runduk, she embodied the ideals of modesty and wisdom for a princess.

Growing into a skilled adolescent martial artist, Putri Runduk had a stepbrother, Sikambang, who discovered magic long ago. Despite the king's prohibition, Putri, driven by curiosity, attended an exhibition, disguised as a man, alongside Sikambang.

Arriving at Sorkam Island, they found a tournament in progress. Putri competed, triumphing in three games. Her heart raced when she faced Datuk Itam, Prince Sorkam. Awkwardness ensued when Putri responded in her natural voice. Refusing to fight a woman, Prince Sorkam objected to continuing the match.

However, when Putri changed her tone, Prince Sorkam recognized her as his father's friend's daughter. Inviting her to Sorkam Palace, Prince Sorkam sought permission to converse with Princess Abbessina as an elder brother, suspecting Prince Abbessina's interest.

In due course, the proposal between Princess Runduk and Prince Sorkam transpired smoothly, but Prince Abbessina assaulted Mursala upon the princess's refusal. Survivors of the battle were Princess Runduk, Sikambang, and Prince Demessie, while both the empress and king perished.

Prince Sorkam united the two kingdoms, and Sikambang persuaded Princess Runduk to flee when Prince Demessie intended to take her to Abbessina. Opting to leap into the water, Princess Runduk created an island in response to Prince Demessie's coerced marriage proposal.

Moral messge: Don't act arbitrarily

The legend's moral teaches against acting without cause, especially in positions of authority, and advocates for self-defense, exemplified by the courageous actions of the princess.

Putri Runduk