The Exploitation of Farmers and the Origins of Situ Bagendit
In Garut, a fertile area in West Java, lies the village where the origins of Situ Bagendit can be traced. The story revolves around the exploitation of farmers by Nyai Endit, the wealthiest individual in the village. Despite the abundance of rice produced by the farmers, they remained impoverished due to Nyai Endit's manipulative practices.
Nyai Endit, through coercive measures, forced the farmers to sell their crops at low prices and buy back the rice at inflated rates when their supplies ran out. This exploitative cycle led to the villagers suffering from hunger while Nyai Endit indulged in luxurious feasts. The villagers, burdened by the escalating prices of rice, prayed for relief from their plight.
The narrative sheds light on the unjust treatment of the farmers and the disparity in wealth distribution within the village. It serves as a poignant reminder of the struggles faced by the marginalized communities in rural areas. The tale also lays the foundation for the formation of Situ Bagendit, reflecting the resilience and hope of the villagers amidst adversity.