Story Summary
Discover the classic Indonesian legend of Bawang Merah Bawang Putih, where kindness triumphs over cruelty and greed in this enchanting Cinderella-style folk tale.
Once in a small Indonesian village lived Bawang Putih, a kind-hearted girl, and her stepsister Bawang Merah, who was lazy and cruel. After her father’s death, Bawang Putih was treated as a servant by her stepmother and Bawang Merah. One day, while washing clothes in the river, Bawang Putih lost a precious scarf. Her search led her to a cave inhabited by an old woman. Bawang Putih stayed to help the woman with chores, asking for nothing in return. Impressed by her kindness, the old woman returned the scarf and offered her a choice between a large and small pumpkin. Bawang Putih chose the small one. Back home, when she cracked it open, it was filled with gold and jewels. Greedy for more, the stepmother sent Bawang Merah to the cave. Bawang Merah was rude, demanded the largest pumpkin, and rushed home to open it. Instead of riches, the pumpkin burst open to reveal venomous snakes, a just punishment for their greed and cruelty.
The Moral
Kindness and humility lead to lasting rewards, while greed and malice eventually bring about one's own downfall.
“The heart that gives without expectation is the heart that receives the greatest treasures.”
Fun Fact
This story is so culturally significant in Indonesia that it has been adapted into numerous TV soap operas, films, and even modern musicals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the moral of Bawang Merah Bawang Putih?
The story teaches that kindness and hard work are rewarded, while greed and arrogance lead to ruin. It emphasizes that inner character is more valuable than outward appearances.
Where does the story of Bawang Merah Bawang Putih originate?
This legend is a traditional folk tale from Indonesia, specifically popular in Java and Sumatra. It shares similar themes with other global 'Cinderella' stories.
What do the names Bawang Merah and Bawang Putih mean?
In Indonesian, 'Bawang Merah' means Red Onion (Shallot) and 'Bawang Putih' means White Onion (Garlic). These names represent the contrasting spicy/harsh and mild/pure personalities of the sisters.
What was inside the pumpkins?
The small pumpkin chosen by the kind Bawang Putih was filled with gold and precious jewels. The large pumpkin demanded by the greedy Bawang Merah contained venomous snakes and scorpions.
How is this story similar to Cinderella?
Like Cinderella, it features an orphaned girl mistreated by a stepmother and stepsister. However, it uses local cultural elements like river washing, jungle spirits, and magical pumpkins instead of a ball and glass slippers.
Who is the old woman in the cave?
The old woman is a mystical figure who acts as a moral judge. She rewards Bawang Putih for her genuine helpfulness and punishes Bawang Merah for her entitlement and disrespect.
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