Human world
The most popular Javanese puppet plays are based on the Mahabharata. It tells of the rivalry between the Kurawa and Pendawa families.
The Kurawa family is angry when the oldest Pendawa son is chosen to succeed the king. The Pendawas are banished into the forest but they create a dazzling kingdom.
The Kurawas are still jealous and plan to beat their rivals in a game of dice. The Pendawas lose everything in the game, including their queen. They are banished for 12 years. Arjuna, one of the Pendawa brothers, seeks help from the Gods.
The story ends with a great battle. The Pendawa women and children are all killed, but the unborn baby, Parikesit, is brought back to life by the God Kresna. Parikesit becomes king of Java - the ancestor of future kings.
Sangkuni is the uncle of the Kurawas and a minister. He is a clever liar who causes trouble. Sangkuni has a pink, upturned face with coarse eyes. Some puppeteers throw Sangkuni into the sea after a performance.