Margarana, Bali Overview

To the northwestern region of the quaint village of Marga is nestled a sprawling memorial complex popularly referred to as the Margarana National Monument Park or the Margarana Memorial Park. Home to a lush field, a dignified museum, as well as a military cemetery, the Margarana National Monument Park is one of the most significant historic landmarks in Indonesia.

The role played by Bali during the Battle of Puputan Margarana in Indonesia’s struggle for independence is commemorated at this site. Margarana may be translated to the ‘Battle of Marga’ in the Indonesian language. Apart from visits from children who throng this place while on educational trips, the fascinating park remains more or less peacefully quiet, and its tranquil surroundings only add to its quietude.

History

The tragic Battle of Puputan Margarana took place between Indonesia and the Netherlands on the 20th of November 1946. Led by Ngurah Rai, the head of the division known as the Little Sunda, this battle had taken place when the Dutch forces retreated after their victorious win over Japan to seize back whichever territories had been captured by the latter while the Second World War was going on.

Significant Features of the Margarana

Every year on the 20th of November a ‘Hero’s Day Ceremony’ is held here in which the residents of Bali reenact the renowned “Long March” that Ngurah Rai had taken from Tabanan to Gunung Agung with his troops with the purpose of distracting the Dutch forces away from the resistance troops who were arriving from Java. Even though the event was not a success back then, it is still considered to be one of the bravest attempts in history and hence, is celebrated each year.

The Margarana National Monument Park also houses a shrine for the honourable Gusti Ngurah Rai, on which one may also find a photograph of him. In addition, it is also home to a couple of ponds that teem with fish and have vibrant lotuses on their surfaces.