King Pakubuwono XIII of Surakarta Passes Away at 77

Surakarta: The Kasunanan Surakarta Hadiningrat Palace is in mourning following the passing of its monarch, Sri Susuhunan Pakubuwono XIII.

The revered king breathed his last at Indriati Hospital in Sukoharjo Regency after receiving medical treatment. He was 77.

The king’s body has been brought to the Kasunanan Surakarta Palace, entering through the west gate accompanied by a royal entourage and hearse. Upon arrival, the remains were taken to the Pujasana Mosque within the palace complex, where rituals and prayers are being held.

According to royal family member KPH Eddy Wirabhumi, discussions are ongoing regarding the funeral arrangements.

“It’s being discussed this morning. Most likely it will take place on Tuesday, November 4, which coincides with Tuesday Kliwon, sometime after 1 p.m.,” he said.

Pakubuwono XIII, whose full title was Kanjeng Gusti Pangeran Adipati Aryo (KGPAA) Hangabehi, was born in Surakarta on June 28, 1948. The eldest son of the late Pakubuwono XII, he ascended the throne in 2004, continuing the royal lineage of one of Java’s oldest courts.

His father, Pakubuwono XII, ruled from 1945 to 2004 — one of the longest reigns in the palace’s history.

Throughout his reign, Pakubuwono XIII was accompanied by his consort, Gusti Kanjeng Ratu (GKR) Pakubuwono. The royal couple has one son, GRM Suryo Aryo Mustiko, also known by his royal title KGPH Purbaya.

The late monarch is expected to lie in state at the palace before being interred at the Imogiri Royal Cemetery in Bantul, Yogyakarta — the traditional resting place of the kings of Surakarta and Yogyakarta.