Astana Oetara Laya, also known by many pilgrims as Pasarean Giri Yasa, is the final resting place of Gusti Pangeran Adipati Arya Mangkunegara VI, the ruler of the Mangkunegaran Duchy from 1896 to 1916. The tomb was constructed in 1926, two years before his passing, on what was once the Manayu Field in Kapanewon Kaliyoso, and is now part of Kampung Nayu, Nusukan Village, Banjarsari District, Surakarta.

This sacred site has been managed by the Soejono Soewasti Foundation, established by Mangkunegara VI together with his son RM Soejono and daughter RA Soewasti. Since its founding, the foundation has not only preserved the burial complex but also contributed to the development of the surrounding village.

Mangkunegara VI, born as Raden Mas Suyitno, was the younger brother of Mangkunegara V. Upon being granted the title Pangeran Dayaningrat, he took over the throne after his brother’s long illness. At the time, the Mangkunegaran palace faced a severe financial crisis due to the failed harvests of sugar and coffee in 1885, which led to mounting debts.

To address the crisis, the Dutch East Indies government formed a Financial Supervision Commission in 1887. One of its members, Pangeran Dayaningrat, was entrusted with managing palace finances due to his integrity and expertise. When he officially became Mangkunegara VI on November 21, 1896, he was given full authority over palace finances and administration. His humility, discipline, and austerity deeply impressed both the colonial government and the people.

In recognition of his leadership, Queen Emma awarded him the Ridder in the Order of the Netherlands Lion, and after succeeding in resolving the financial crisis, Queen Wilhelmina honored him with the Commandeur in the Order of Orange-Nassau.

After ruling for 20 years, he voluntarily abdicated the throne, handing over authority to the Governor-General of the Dutch East Indies. He later moved to Surabaya, where he passed away on June 25, 1928. Remembered as a wise and selfless leader, he earned the revered title Satrio Pinandito—the “Warrior Monk.”

To this day, Astana Oetara Laya is a popular site of pilgrimage, especially on Tuesday Kliwon and Friday nights, drawing people who seek inspiration from the spirit of a noble ruler who once healed his people not only with power—but with wisdom, humility, and heart.