Indonesian Mythology

The Gods and Spirits of Indonesia

BOTA ILI

Kédang legendary mortal

Also known as Bota Hi

Wild and hairy first lady

The first woman, she was wild and hairy and lived at the top of a mountain on Lembata Island feeding on lizards and snakes. She had this amusing trick of creating fire by striking her bottom on a stone. This enabled her to indulge in the sophistication of grilled, roast or barbecued reptiles.

Wata Rian, a curious man, noticed drifting smoke and wondered what could cause such a thing, pyrotechnics not yet having made a general worldly appearance. He set off with his dog, a fish he had caught and some wine and hid in a tree watching Bota Ili hunting.

On her return she sensed his presence, screamed and howled, and threatened to bite him to bits. Until he pointed out that if she did his dog would do the same to her. A compromise was reached with the help of the wine, and before long a relationship was sparked off as they shared a grilled fish supper.

Not used to such wining and dining Bota Ili fell asleep and Wata took the opportunity to shave off all her hairiness and a very attractive woman was revealed. Wata was so impressed he pressed his suit even if he didn’t have one, and married her. Since when they have always had the hots for each other, and the world has benefited with flames and passion.

Bota Ili Facts and Figures

Name: Bota Ili
Pronunciation: Coming soon
Alternative names: Bota Hi

Gender: Female
Type: legendary mortal
Area or people: Kédang people of Lembata island in Indonesia
Celebration or Feast Day: Unknown at present

Role: Unknown at present

Good/Evil Rating: NEUTRAL, may not care
Popularity index: 2627

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Article last revised on May 11, 2019 by the Godchecker data dwarves.
Editors: Peter J. Allen, Chas Saunders

References: Coming soon.

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