UMPO Leaders Shine as Stage Stars at the Opening of Grebeg Suro 2025

UMPO.AC.ID  -  Alon-Alon Ponorogo witnessed the spectacular opening of Grebeg Suro 2025, held on Tuesday night, June 7, 2025. Universitas Muhammadiyah Ponorogo (UMPO) delivered an extraordinary performance at the largest cultural celebration in Ponorogo Regency, presenting a grand masterpiece titled "Warisan Jiwo Simo Ludro" (The Legacy of Simo Ludro’s Soul).

UMPO not only captivated the audience with their performance but also made history by directly involving the university’s top leaders as the main stars on stage. This became the most special and spectacular aspect of the Grebeg Suro 2025 opening. The university’s leadership—from the rector, vice-rectors, to deans—transformed into key characters in this meaningful cultural story.

Here are the UMPO leaders who took the stage in this spectacular performance:

Dr. Rido Kurnianto, M.Ag (Rector of UMPO) as Ki Selo Aji

Ki Selo Aji is portrayed as a loyal, courageous figure with a vital role in the founding of Ponorogo. He was a close companion and devoted follower of Raden Bathara Katong in his journey to establish the Ponorogo duchy. Ki Selo Aji’s bravery and loyalty became the pillars of every step taken by Raden Bathara Katong in shaping Ponorogo. His character stands as a symbol of dedication and sacrifice in the long history of the Reog homeland.

Dr. Dian Suluh Kusuma Dewi, M.Ap (Vice-Rector II) as Putri Champa

Putri Champa is known for her gentle yet dignified character. She was wise in making decisions and steadfast in facing the turmoil of the times. Her captivating beauty became not only a legend but also a symbol of female strength capable of bringing about great change in history.

Dr. Hadi Sumarsono, M.Si (Vice-Rector II) as Prabu Brawijaya

Prabu Brawijaya V is remembered as a great king of the Majapahit Empire, known for his authority and wisdom. Under his reign, Majapahit stood tall as a powerful force ruling much of the archipelago. He symbolizes the final glory of Majapahit, a leader who held power at the empire’s peak while also guiding it into a critical transitional period in history.

Dr. Rudianto, M.Ag (Director of UMPO Postgraduate Program) as Lembu Kenanga

Lembu Kenanga embodies loyalty, courage, and determination in preserving ancestral heritage. He is portrayed as a figure of great strength, sincere spirit, and heartfelt dedication. He was not just a guardian but a warrior who devoted his life to Ponorogo.

Dr. Katni, M.Pd.I (Dean of FAI UMPO) as Jaya Dipa

Jaya Dipa is remembered as a young commander, a symbol of bravery and resilience on the battlefield. His name shines in Ponorogo’s history as someone who never backed down from conflict, even in the face of imminent destruction. He led his troops with burning spirit and sharp strategy, always standing at the forefront.

Dr. Slamet Santoso, M.M (Dean of FE UMPO) as Permada

Permada is portrayed as a true soldier who dedicated his life to defending truth and the honor of his homeland. He was not only a strong fighter but also possessed an unwavering heart and unmatched loyalty.

Dr. Ferry Irawan, M.Hum (Dean of FH UMPO) as Buntara

Buntara is known as a figure of extraordinary persistence and unshakable loyalty. More than just a bodyguard, he was a true protector who faithfully accompanied the kingdom’s leaders through both peaceful times and moments of great crisis.

Edy Kurniawan, M.T (Dean of FT UMPO) as Ki Ageng Mirah

Ki Ageng Mirah is depicted as a calm, knowledgeable man, soft-spoken yet firm. He served as both a teacher and a guide for commanders and kings. He is remembered as the kingdom’s grand advisor, a beacon amid uncertainty, and a guardian of balance throughout the kingdom’s journey.

Dr. Sutrisno, M.Pd (Dean of FKIP UMPO) and Syaiful H., M.Kep (Dean of FIK UMPO) as the Majapahit Guards

The Majapahit Guards were highly disciplined warriors, skilled in combat, and held steadfast to the values of loyalty, honor, and bravery. They were soldiers who always stood at the front lines without hesitation, even when facing life-threatening dangers.

Dr. Robby Darwis Nasution, M.A (Dean of FISIP UMPO) as Ki Ageng Kutu

Ki Ageng Kutu is remembered as a leader who fought not only with weapons but also with cultural strategies and symbols of people's power. He played an essential role in the historical chapter linking the fall of Majapahit to the birth of a new era in Java.

(Ajeng Laksmita/Humas UMPO)