Tarumanagara

Tarumanagara was an early Hindu kingdom located in West Java, Indonesia. Historical evidence suggests it flourished between the 4th and 7th centuries CE. The kingdom is primarily known through a series of stone inscriptions found in the region, most notably the Ciaruteun, Kebon Kopi, and Tugu inscriptions. These inscriptions provide some of the earliest written records in Sundanese history and are written in Sanskrit using the Pallava script.

The inscriptions indicate that the kingdom was ruled by kings, with King Purnawarman being the most prominent figure mentioned. Purnawarman is described as a powerful and benevolent ruler, known for his public works, such as the construction of canals and the management of water resources. His reign is often associated with prosperity and stability for the kingdom. Tarumanagara's economy likely relied on agriculture, particularly rice cultivation, and potentially trade due to its strategic location. The kingdom's existence signifies the early introduction and influence of Indian culture and religion, specifically Hinduism, in the Indonesian archipelago, predating the rise of other major kingdoms like Srivijaya and Majapahit. The decline of Tarumanagara is not precisely documented, but it is generally believed to have been absorbed into or succeeded by other regional polities.