Awakening of Karkandu Diwakar Chitrakatha 023

Author(s): Pankajmuni, Shreechand Surana
Publisher: Mahavir Seva Trust Mumbai
Catalog link: https://jainqq.org/explore/006623/1

Page #1

DIWAKAR
CHITRA KATHA
Vol. 23 Rs. 25.00

A Mahavir Seva Trust Presentation
Awakening of Karkandu

Page #2

THE AWAKENING OF KARKANDU
Pratyek-buddha is a unique Jain term. It means-that pure and sagacious soul which when inspired by some particular incident acquires spiritual consciousness, becomes free of passions like lust, anger, greed, and conceit and indulges in spiritual endeavour. There have been many such inspired souls in the past and many more are yet to come. However, in the Jain literature there are four famous stories about such inspired individuals. These stories are interesting as well as inspiring.
The hero of this story is Karkandu the mighty king of Kalinga state. He was the son of King Dadhivahan of Champa. His mother was Queen Padmavati. However, circumstances forced him to be brought up by the family of Matang, a chandal or the caretaker of the cremation ground. Due to his inborn hereditary virtues Karkandu became a great ruler. He was instrumental in bringing about a revolutionary change in the that day society by turning the chandal clans into Brahmins by educating them. The incident is relevant even today because it gives the ideal message that social uplift can be effected by infusing values and virtues, and not just by being converted into a religious order or a clan.
The whole life of Karkandu is the pronouncement of courageously accepting good conduct as the way of life and fearlessly following it. To recognize the ephemeral nature of human life just by looking at a groggy bull is a sign of the piety of his attitude.
According to the historians Karkandu was a contemporary of Bhagavan Mahavir. However, the fact that he became a pratyek-buddha before Bhagavan Mahavir became a Tirthankar connects him with Bhagavan Parshvanath's order also.
This script was written by Shri Pankaj Muni the disciple Up-pravartak Shri Amar Muni ji M. who is a disciple of U. B. Pravartak Bhandari Shri Padmachandra ji M. of Shraman Sangh
- Shrichand Surana Saras'
Written by: Shri Pankaj Muni
Managing Editors: Dr. Mansukhbhai Jain, Sanjay Surana
Compilation : Srichand Surana 'Saras'
English Translation: Surendra Bothara
PUBLISHERS
MAHAVIR SEVA TRUST C/O DR. M. B. JAIN, B-29/30. YOJANA APTS., S. V. ROAD, MALAD (WEST), MUMBAI-400 064 TEL : 8892121/8811397
FEDERATION OF JAIN ASSOCIATIONS IN NORTH AMERICA (JAINA) C/o DR. P. B. GADA, 4410, 50TH STREET, LUBBOCK, TEXAS-79414 (U.S.A.)
DIWAKAR PRAKASHAN A-7, AWAGARH HOUSE, OPP. ANJNA CINEMA, M. G. ROAD, AGRA-282 002 TEL. : 351165, 51789
JAIN SOCIAL GROUPS FEDERATION 4-P. VIJAY CHAMBERS, 4TH FLOOR, TRIBHUVAN ROAD, MUMBAI-400 004 TEL. : 3870724
INDIRA MANSUKHLAL DOSHI MEMORIAL TRUST 931 W. GOLDENROD LANE, LAKE FOREST, IL 60045 (USA) PHONE 847-735-0120

Page #3

HUMBLE REQUEST
SUBSCRIPTION FORM
RENEW YOUR MEMBERSHIP Dear Brothers and Sisters, You must have liked these Colorful English Picture Story Books. Isn't it? Would you like to continue ? Isn't it so ? Please fill the attached Subscription Form and send it to us the same with the subscription amount. You will continue getting your books regularly. Hurry up yourself and also tell your friends to join us. If you have any suggestions, please send it on the back of the Subscription Form.
Subscription for the year 1998 (One Year) Subscription for the year 1997 to 1998 (Two Years) Subscription for the year 1996 to 1998 (Three Years)
Name
Address (In Block Letters)
Thanking you for your co-operation for the year 1 1996-97 and looking forward for the same in the coming year.
Yours sincerely, Dr. Mansukhbhai B. Jain |
Pin
(Off.)
Subscription for the year 1998 (12 Books) (From Issue No. 25 to 36)
Rs. 240.00 Subscription for the year 1997 and 98 (24 Books) (From Issue No. 13 to 36)
Rs. 480.00 Subscription for the year 1996 to 98 (36 Books) (From Issue No. 1 to 36)
Rs. 720.00 (All previously published and subscribed books will be immediately sent to the 2 and 3 years members. Remaining twelve books will be posted, one every month.)
Tel. No. (Res.) Old Subscription No. M.O./D.D./Cheque No. - Bank Date For English/Gujarati
(Cheques are allowed for Subscribers from Bombay Only. Others can send their subscription amount by M.O./D.D. All payments should be in favour of MAHAVIR SEVA TRUST)
Annual Subscription for other countries :
US $ 21.00
i MAHAVIR SEVA TRUST i
A/7, SAGAR NIWAS, IST. FLOOR, OFF MANCHHUBHAI ROAD,
NEAR PATKARWADI. MALAD (EAST) MUMBAI-400 097.
TEL.: 8811397
Annual Subscription for Gujarati Edition :
Rs. 240.00
For Office Use Only
Existing Members should send their subscription only for current year 1998. New Members can send their subscription from 1996 to 98 (Full 3 Years) or 1997 to 98. (2 Years)! See the list of Forthcoming Issues on Cover Page No. 3
Receipt No. Subscriber No.. Books Dispatched

www.jalnelibrary.org

Page #4

-lain Education International

Page #5

THE AWAKENING OF KARKANDU
What is the matter, darling! During this monsoon season everything in nature blossoms but you are turning pale like a
wilting champak vine....
King Dadhivahan was the ruler of Champa city. His queen, Padmavati was the daughter of Chetak the chief of Vaishali republic. She was pregnant. One day when the King entered her room he found her worried. He asked
Sire! For sometime I am having a strange nagging desire.
But....
091
2.
ee
NES
But what? darling! Do you have a doubt that I will be unable to fulfill your
desire?
No, sire! Some desires are so strange that one is ashamed
even to express them.
My queen! Please do not hesitate to express your desire. I will try my best to
fulfill you desire.
The queen conveyed her desire to the king.

Page #6

THE AWAKENING OF KARKANDU
Next morning the king made necessary arrangements. The queen dressed herself as the king and also put on his crown and sword. She sat on the elephant with all the dignity of a king. At her back sat the king with the royal umbrella in his hand. Hundreds of soldiers followed the queen's elephant. Surprised at her strange attire thousands of citizens greeted the queen and showered flowers.
T
ΡΕΣΕ
A
opp
ka
Townswomen fondly talked about this display of love of the royal couple
0983
1903898999999
See, how deeply our king loves
his queen.
iiici
PERT CO3
YOW
Indeed! and how much he honours
her wishes....

Page #7

THE AWAKENING OF KARKANDU
Accepting the greetings the queen proceeded towards a garden outside the city. Suddenly it started drizzling. The king said
Darling! Look, to fulfill your desire even the rain-god conveys his happiness and causes this pleasant drizzle. The wind-god blows cool breeze with his fan. Are you satisfied now?
Sire! It appears that the intoxicating weather and cool breeze have turned the elephant mad. Please take care.
大
While they were talking sweetly the procession crept on.
Suddenly the elephant bolted ahead. The keeper used his lance but could not stop the elephant. It continued to run like mad. The keeper shouted in panic
クラッ
पी. ह. ह
XOO

Whee
200
3

How can my wishes remain unfulfilled when I have a husband like you, Sire!
Bu
DOYO
ord
Mon M 26...CO
ner

Page #8

With apprehension the king said
Keeper! Try to control the elephant somehow. There is a dangerous forest ahead.
eff
6oooooo...
Ovoting
Any

THE AWAKENING OF KARKANDU
Sire! The elephant is beyond control.
Please watch and hold the
queen.
As the elephant came under the tree the king caught hold of a shoot. The queen too raised her hands but failed to hold on.
The Bo
THO 215
For
Evo
The cavalry was left behind. The mad elephant was rushing towards the forest. The king pointed at a dense banyan tree ahead and said to the queenFace You
Goog
MOR
ची-ह
C
The elephant went ahead. The king shouted
Padmavati! Don't panic. Save yourself by holding on to another tree.
noa
Darling! See that great banyan tree. It has long vine-like shoots. As the elephant passes under it catch hold of a shoot. I will also do the same....
4

S

Page #9

THE AWAKENING OF KARKANDU
Crossing the forest and mountains the elephant reached the plains. By then the weather had changed. The heat of the sun pacified the elephant. Seeing a lake it entered water to quench its thirst.
Trumpeting of elephants, roaring of lions and other eerie sounds of the forest made the queen nervous. She prayed
God! Please get me out of this trouble. I vow not to eat or drink till this trouble is over.
BM
F
C
SON
OV
Gathering courage, the queen jumped into the lake and swam ashore.
She started chanting Namokar Mantra devotionally.
The prayer removed her fears and gave her courage. She stood up and looked around.
le
0
.
2
The queen took to a trail leading to the cottage. She gained confidence when she saw an old hermit coming. When she came near the hermit she greeted him
Blessings my child! My respects,
Who are you and what are O great
you doing in this desolate hermit!
forest?
00
There is a small cottage. Someone must be living
there....

Page #10

Regaining her composure the queen replied
Revered one! I am
the wife of King Dadhivahan
of Champa and daughter of Chetak, the president of the Vaishali republic.
Cars
Timy
Earth
100x
wwww
را سال
THE AWAKENING OF KARKANDU
Daughter of Chetak and alone in this forest....How did you come here?
After she rested, the hermit took Queen Padmavati to the town. The hermit stopped just outside the town.
Daughter! This is Dantpur and now you will have to proceed alone. We hermits do not step on tilled ground and....
dodolololololo
11
The queen paid homage to the hermit and went into the town.
#An important town in Kalinga state of that period.

The queen narrated the incident and added
Revered one! King Dadhivahan must be miles away.... Please take me to some nearby
town.
ro
ELU
younes
$9
Walking alone on the streets, the queen looked for some place to stay. She saw some nuns returning after alms-collection.
stuf
E
Oh! these nuns are returning to there place of stay. I should go to them.
Don't worry daughter! Chetak is my friend and you are like my daughter. Rest for some time in my cottage and then I will take you to the nearby town.
6

02
Blavernd
0.00002
AAAA
可信

Page #11

THE AWAKENING OF KARKANDU
Reaching at the gate of the upashraya she paused
nnnnnn
णमो अरिहंताणं णमो शिखाणं णमो आयरियाणं णमो उवज्झायाणं गमो लोए सव्वसाहूर्ण
The afflictions have brought me to the doors of religion. Now why
should I return to Champa city....Why not devote the rest of
my life to religious practices and meditation in the company of these
nuns here.
Resolving thus the queen entered the Upashraya. She approached the head of the nuns and after bowing her she introduced herself and narrated her story. The head consoled her and said, "Sister! this is the play of karmas. Sorrow follows happiness and pain follows pleasure. The cycle of fate moves like the wheel of a chariot." The queen said, "Bhagavati! Please show me the path of liberation." The head said, "Religion is the boat that can help man cross this ocean of sorrows." The queen, "Bhagavati! I want to renounce this mundane life and get initiated. Please give me diksha". I want to become a shramani (Jain female ascetic) and make my life purposeful with the help of austerities and meditation." Assured of the detachment of the queen, the head Shramani gave her diksha. Queen Padmavati now became Shramani Padmavati. At the proper time she told her preceptor about her pregnancy with all innocence. The head Shramani secretly sent her to the house of a devoted Shravak (Jain layman). She gave birth to a son. Padmavati put the ring bearing the mark of King Dadhivahan on the finger of the infant, wrapped him in a blanket and put him under a tree near the cremation ground. After this she returned to the Upashraya.
In the morning Yamdand, the watchman of the cremation ground passed that way. He saw something wrapped in a costly blanket lying under a tree. He rushed nearer. When he heard an infant crying he jumped with joy
Oh! What a miracle! A divine looking child and in this state! Must be the cause of embarrassment to some
lady of high status....
Jal# Formal initiation into the ascetic order.
For Private Personal Use Only

Page #12

THE AWAKENING OF KARKANDU
Yamapasha kissed the child.
Yamdand picked up the child and furtively returned home. He said to his wife
O God! Only you know of your
miracles....
Lucky woman! See what I have brought for you. You longed to see the face of a son. Here, take this divine child, a
gift from God.
Yamadand and Yamapasha showered their love and affection over the child. The child started growing under their care.
All the kids started clapping and teasing him.
One day he was playing gilli-danda #. A player hit the gilli and it flew in his direction. Just at that moment the boy's back started itching and he got busy scratching. He failed to catch the gilli. His team mates got wild at him--
Come here, Karkandu!
Karkandu, what a beautiful
name!
You are always scratching some part of your body with your hand as if you have become Karkandu ##
And the name Karkandu stuck to him. # A popular game of rural India. ## One who keeps op scratching with his hands.
www.jainelibra Sorg

Page #13

THE AWAKENING OF KARKANDU
When he became a youth, one day his father told Karkandu
Now Karkandu took charge of the duty of guarding the cremation ground.
Have you brought the required
cash, rice, and clothes....?
Son! Now that you are grown up; take charge of my work. Take this staff and guard the cremation ground. Collect levy from everyone who brings
a body for cremation.
3 m2
All right father.
Yes, we have it.
The sage said
When this sprout grows three inches long, whoever carries
it will become a king.
Once Karkandu was sitting under a tree near the cremation ground. A sage and his disciple passed from there talking
See that bamboo sprout on the Sir! What is southern side of the cremation ground. so miraculous
That is a very propitious and about the miraculous bamboo....
bamboo...

For Privg & Personal Use Only

Page #14

Karkandu heard this dialogue and thought
When it is three inches long I will pluck this bamboo sprout out.
Nas
Want
22 M
Wife Ap
होल
..
They both eagerly awaited the bamboo sprout becoming three inches long.
mangat 17-08
m

THE AWAKENING OF KARKANDU
2
3
CORDO
The Brahmin youth was stunned. He replied weekly
I am a Brahmin and I want this piece of bamboo.
A Brahmin youth had also heard the dialogue
Good! When it is three inches long I will pluck this bamboo sprout out.
Who are you and what are
you doing? Stealing!
88
MA Aman
One day the Brahmin youth came and measured the bamboo. When he found it to be three inches long he started digging it out. Just then Karkandu came there and warned in forceful voice
Karkandu caught his hand.
86
For Private 30ersonal Use Only
0
GOOD MIAZE
Fenong
You say you are a Brahmin and you are stealing?
que
Pony

Page #15

Brahmin youth
Keep away. Don't touch me. You chandal!
SCOPO
Such a fracas for a mere three inch piece of bamboo. What is so special about this....

THE AWAKENING OF KARKANDU
When they could not pacify the two, the citizens took them to the city judge. The judge laughed when he heard about the cause of the quarrel. He said
You commit a
theft at my place
and reprimand me when caught.
LANNI
QAPAL
The two started fighting. A way fairer said to Karkandu
What is there to fight for a small piece of bamboo. He is a Brahmin. Let him take it.
If he is a Brahmin
he should seek alms, why steal. I will never allow him to steal.
Karkandu replied fearlessly
Whoever has this piece of bamboo will become a king. This bamboo is from our cremation ground tried to it rightfully belongs to me. He has committ the theft, he should be punished.
11
PEKA

Page #16

The judge was impressed by the courage and sense of justice of Karkandu. He said
All right, boy! You keep this piece of bamboo. However, when you become a king reward this Brahmin youth also.
Of course, Sir! I will donate one village to him when I become a king.
THE AWAKENING OF KARKANDU
The piece of bamboo was given to Karkandu.
When Yamadand heard of this conspiracy of Brahmins he got panicky. He told his wife
What if something happens to our son?

Let us leave this village and go far away....
That night Yamadand left the village with his wife and Karkandu.
The Brahmin community deliberated on this decisionThis chandal youth has insulted the whole Brahmin community..... What an affront?
Traveling three days and nights they reached Kanchanpur, the capital of Kalinga. They sat down at the bank of a large lake outside the town. Suddenly they heard noises and looked in that direction.
00000
We will
avenge
this. We
will kill Karkandu.
12

เลต

Page #17

THE AWAKENING OF KARKANDU
They saw a decorated horse with a regal umbrella coming towards them. It was followed by numerous other decorated horses and elephants. The horse came straight where they were sitting. It stopped in front of Karkandu and whinnied loudly. Hundreds of soldiers surrounded Karkandu. An prominent person came ahead
Long live the king! I, the prime minister of Kanchanpur, greet you. O lucky one! The throne of Kalinga is unoccupied since the king died heir-less. This divine horse has declared that you be the king.
Please accept the kingdom of Kalinga.
I am pleased to accept your request.
V
accer
... ET.....!
os
99
Poocool
-
04
16.
NO
Members of the royal staff adorned Karkandu with the regalia. The crown was put on his head. They came to the palace in a procession with him riding the divine horse. There the coronation rituals were performed.
FCI Toge OOO 9010
MOZ
UVUVI
VUNO
ДЕЛУЛУУ

13

Page #18

After the coronation the state priest asked Yamadand
To which great clan do you belong?
442
THE AWAKENING OF KARKANDU
The state priest trembled with anger. He summoned all the prominent Brahmins of the state and said
Our new king is the son of a chandal. The divine aura of the Brahmins of the state where a chandal rules disappear.
gum
I am a chandal from Dantapur My profession is to guard cremation ground.

Hearing this Karkandu lost his temper. He took his scepter in his hand and roared
I have not got the kingdom by begging for it.
TOYA
I have been chosen by fate for my virtues.
The Brahmins threatened the minister and the commander
What have you done?
If the chandal remains the king all Brahmins will leave the state and go elsewhere.
14

Page #19

With these words Karkandu waved the scepter in air. Flames erupted from it. Everyone was taken aback by this miracle. From the skies came a divine pronouncement
30
Sen An
THE AWAKENING OF KARKANDU
PISTO
af

Karkandu is going to be a great and powerful king. Whoever defies him will have his head shattered with the blow of this scepter.
The state priest and others bowed down with awe. The gods showered flowers from the sky.
Uu
Victory to the Great King Karkandu.
P
15

ing
GORODE
DODDO
Hearing this they were all stunned.
King Karkandu was disturbed by the casteist antagonism and false pride of the Brahmins. He thought
Because of theik antagonism for other castes the Brahmins hate even the hard working chandals with righteous conduct. Why not turn all chandals into Brahmins.

Page #20

King Karkandu called the prominent Brahmins of the city and said
Why do you chandals?
hate
THE AWAKENING OF KARKANDU
No sire! Chandals
cannot become Brahmins.
The Brahmins could not digest this strange proposal from the king. They humbly said
Scholars! It is by his conduct and not by birth that a man is a Brahmin. Purify them by inducting them into righteous ways. Once they accept that why can't these
chandals tum into Brahmins...
Sire! Chandals belong to the lower castes.
Even to touch them is a sin.
vo
Then indoctrinate them into ways of the higher castes and make them Brahmins.
The king ordered them with a warning
75
Tren
It is my order that chandals and Brahmins should eat together. He who defies this should leave the state.
The Brahmins remained silent.
Note: A child becomes Brahmin only after the thread-ceremony that is why he is called a Dvij or twice born.

16

Page #21

THE AWAKENING OF KARKANDU
According to the king's order Brahmins and chandals dined together. The king then made them stand under a large canopy and sprinkled holy water over them. He said
Now all chandals have become Brahmins. All their life they will follow the rules of refraining from killing animals, consuming meat and alcohol, stealing, and adultery.
Sire! I am the same poor Brahmin to whom you had promised to donate a village.
With the change in attitude and behaviour the caste changed. The chandals accepted the pious way of life like Brahmins.
King Karkandu also recognized the Brahmin
The glory of Karkandu spread far and near. One day a Brahmin youth came to Karkandu's court and after greetings said

UN
000
צע
ORIOL
We accept this.
Yes! Indeed, I remember
my promise. You may ask for any village you want.
For Private & Peral Use Only
Sire! I live in a
village near Champa, the capital of Anga. Please give me that village.

Page #22

At this the minister intervened
Sire! How can we donate a village belonging to Anga. That state is ruled by King Dadhivahan...
ATTENTIONS
Me
110011
Molok
W
Enca
AMIRNO
THE AWAKENING OF KARKANDU
Now that I have given my word it will be honoured. Send an emissary to King Dadhivahan
with my message.
The chandal king is ignorant of state- XE craft. Territories belonging to different states cannot be exchanged....

With anger mixed mockery the king of Champa
said
Karkandu's emissary took along the Brahmin and went to King Dadhivahan with the message. HONAN
Sire! King Karkandu of Kalinga has sent a message. Kindly give the desired village in your territory to this Brahmin. In exchange you may take an equivalent area from our territory.
Sire! You seem to be unaware of the anger of the king of Kalinga. His eyes and scepter both emit fire. He will turn everything
to ashes.
King Dadhivahan said-
Go back and tell your king that
if his scepter has so much power why does he beg. Ask him to face me in the battle field.
ستان الانا اور
18

EOEQEQ

Page #23

THE AWARENESCHOPNARKANDU
The emissary left without any comment. When he reported the words of Dadhivahan to Karkandu the king lost his temper. He declared a war. War trumpets were blown and the armies of Anga and Kalinga started a fierce war.
315
On the other hand, nun Padmavati was keeping a trace of Karkandu's activities since he had fled Dantapur. When she heard that Anga and Kalinga are at war against each other she trembled with apprehension. Unaware of their relationship a father and his son had become enemies. Padmavati approached her preceptor and after telling the whole story said, "Because of ignorance thousands of men are being slaughtered.... if you allow me can convince them to stop this war." The preceptor gave her permission. Padmavati came to the battle field and told the story of her past and his birth to Karkandu. She added, "Son! King Dadhivahan is not your enemy. He is your father...." When Yamadand also confirmed this, Karkandu was filled with love for his real father. After this Padmavati went to the camp of King Dadhivahan. Everyone there was surprised to see her. King Dadhivahan was also filled with joy. Padmavati told her story starting from the point of her separation from the king. She informed, "Sire! Karkandu is not the son of a chandal. He is your son. Chandal has only brought him up. Karkandu is your own blood. Why this war?"

For Private Personal Use Only

Page #24

THE AWAKENING OF KARKANDU
The soldiers informed Karkandu
Hearing all this Dadhivahan was filled with joy. He instructed his commander
Stop the war.... Lay down the arms....
Sire! The army of Anga has laid down arms. Walking bare footed King Dadhivahan
is coming to see you.
And he himself rushed bare footed towards the camp of the king of Kalinga.
Karkandu also ran bare footed to meet Dadhivahan. With tears of joy in his eyes he fell at the feet of his father. Dadhivahan embraced him. Soldiers from both sides showered flowers and extended greetings with beating drums. The commander of Champa said
This is the happy occasion of a son and father coming together. Champa has got
its future king and the father his son....

For Privat 20-ersonal Use Only

Page #25

THE AWAKENING OF KARKANDU
The father and the son sat on the same elephant and entered Champa. Every house in Champa lit lamps with butter and ladies sang auspicious songs.
With pomp and show the two entered the palace. The guard of the royal garden came and informed
Sire! Acharya Dharmaghosh has arrived in the park.
TOGG
Great! This is the day of great happiness and joy in my life. I have found my son, got the where
abouts of my lost wife, and now with the opportunity to uplift my soul a guru has arrived.
Arriving at the decision the king called his prime minister and said
Next day in a grand ceremony King Dadhivahan crowned Karkandu and handed over the reins of the kingdom of Anga.
Hail King Karkandu!
Long live the king!
Make preparations for FOHOW the coronation of my son Karkandu and initiation
ceremony for me....
DA
Free of the burden of the state, King Dadhivahan proceeded on the spiritual path.

For Priv2). Personal Use Only

Page #26

THE AWAKENING OF KARKANDU
Karkandu was now the sovereign of the largeOne day while going around the byre he saw territories of Anga and Kalinga. He was very a new born calf. His heart went out to it. He fond of cows. In his byre there were thousands picked it up in his hands and fondled and of cows. He himself went around the byre and kissed it like a human babytook loving care of the cows and calves.
Oh! how beautiful and
delicate it is. SITION
Nandu did you suckle, dear?
ute
He gave instructions to the cowherds
This calf should be allowed to suckle its mother freely. If need be feed extra milk as well. Make
arrangements to take extra care of this calf.
The chosen calf was looked after according to the king's wish. A few months later the king again came to the byre. The calf was now a young bull. The king touched it with love
Nandi! How lovely it is! How soft is its skin! It looks like a heap of cotton or
white lotus....
G
M
SA

22

Page #27

THE AWAKENING OF KARKANDU
Karkandu spent a lot of time fondling the smooth body of the young bull. Appreciating its white teeth, strong body, and soft skin the king said
After a long period Karkandu came again to the byre. While he was moving around petting cows and calves he suddenly recalled
CA
Make a golden chain and a silver trough to feed
this beautiful bull.
Oh! Where is that Nandi?
Sire! This is your beloved
Nandi.
The king looked at it with surprise
Are you sure? ISIN Where are its milky
white teeth?
They have fallen, Sire! it is old now.
ZA
The king said
Sire! Old age does this to the body. All the fervor and vigour
vane with advancing age.
Its skin has become wrinkled, eyes are wet and dirty, and a horn is broken. How limp
and weak it looks.
5@qe

For Priva23 Personal Use Only

Page #28

THE AWAKENING OF KARKANDU
For long Karkandu stood there looking at the old bull and contemplating
Is old age so pitiable. The aging process sucks the juices from the body and a being becomes weak, meek, and dependent....
LOGGGO
SCOGS
WE
SPACIO
The king was shocked
Would I too become old? My body will become fragile with aging. I will suffer the
affliction of weakness and meekness.
One who renounces mundane pleasure and treads the path of yoga
overcomes aging.
W
No! No! I will compose myself before the
onslaught of old age.
AS
ht
ODOCOO
I will make my soul strong with the practices of discipline and austerities.
Then aging.... and death will not be
able to afflict me....
24

Page #29

THE AWAKENING OF KARKANDU
Thinking thus about the self Karkandu, the king of Kalinga, got enlightenment instantaneously. His soul awakened and was filled with the radiance of knowledge.
201
He took off his regal attire and prepared for renouncing. At that moment gods appeared and dressed him as an ascetic. Karkandu became a Pratyek-buddha.
THE END
THE MESSAGE
This story of the life of Pratyek-buddha Karkandu teaches us that in troubled times patience and courage are the biggest assets of a man. One who has faith in his own power and luck is never afraid of anyone. Greatness lies in attitude and action not in caste. With purity of attitude and conduct a chandal becomes as pious as a Brahmin. The body, youth, strength, etc. are all short lived. One should observe discipline and austerities and under take other pious activities before the age makes the body feeble and weak. In the Jain scriptures there is verse about Pratyek Buddha Karkandu
सेयं सुजायं सुविभत्तसिंगं, जो पासिया वसहं गोट्ठ मज्झे, रिद्धि-अरिद्धि समुपेहियाणं कलिंगराया पि समिक्ख धम्मं ।
Meaning-When the king of Kalinga saw a young and healthy white bull with beautiful horns turn weak and disabled by ageing, he thought about the adverse effects of ageing and took to the spiritual path. He renounced mundane pleasures and with the help of yoga realized the self.

25

Page #30

PRATYEK-BUDDHA DVIMUKH In Kampilyapur, the capital of Panchal,
ruled King Jaivarma. On day he asked his emissary
You have
traveled far and
near. Tell me of some unique thing that is not available in
our state.
Sire! Once I visited Kaushambi, the capital of Vatsa. King Shatanik has got a unique art gallery made there. It is so interesting that even if you spent hours watching it you do not get bored. I have yet to see another such art gallery

69.90
ege O
PROLON
26

O
126 1
Sire! It would be great if we too have such an art
gallery....
The king was pleased by the emissary's advise.

Page #31

Soon the king invited famous architects and artists from distant lands and selected a spot
Forei
LOURE
1200000!
PRATYEK-BUDDHA DVIMUKH
The architects agreed and commenced the work.
When the king placed the crown on his head there appeared the reflection of his face in the closely set gems. His minister exclaimed
W
What a beautiful site. On one side there is a lush green mountain, on another is a river, and on the third is a jungle with various animals.
Great, Sire! It is a divine crown. Your face is clearly reflected in the gems studded in this crown. It seems that you, have two faces, not just one, Sire!

With passage of time the king got known as Dvimukh (two faced).
While digging, the workers found a glittering golden crown in some ancient remains. The architect ran to the king with it and the king looked agape at the crown.
Oh! How wonderful is this crown. How large are these gems studded in it.....
Once Chandpradyot, the king of Avanti heard about the divine crown from some caravaneer. He was filled with a desire to possess it
I am the greatest king in India the Bharat Khand. Such crown should be with me.
27

DOUTDOOR C
Yo
FOCO
Go

Page #32

PRATYEK-BUDDHA DVIMUKH Chandpradyot called his special emissary and said Jaivarma laughed and said
DJ
Go to king Jaivarma and tell him that he should hand over the divine crown to me. He may seek anything in return...
Tell your king that one does not even get alms by begging. He can get this crown
only in his dreams....
ES
OLQOLA
XL @en
The emissary went to Jaivarma with the message.
The emissary conveyed the reply to Chandpradyot.
Angry Chandpradyot attacked Kampilyapur. Jaivarma was also a great warrior. He defeated the army of Avanti and made Chandpradyot a prisoner. The victor said
One evening when Chandpradyot was walking in the gallery he saw a beautiful young girl sitting in the balcony of the adjacent palace. He was stunned by her beauty
According to the norms of war you are my prisoner. However, don't worry. As you are also a friend you
will be treated well here....
Oh! what a beauty. She is divinely charming. She is fit to be my
queen.
anna
S
TE
Providing all the facilities befitting a king, Chandpradyot was put under detention in a palace.
Dazed Chandpradyot continued to stare at her.
28

Page #33

PRATYEK-BUDDHA DVIMUKH
After some time he recovered and asked a servant
She is princess Madanmanjari, the only and beloved
daughter of our king.
Who is that divinely beautiful lady with astonishing
charm and youth?
These words frosted Chandpradyot's
joy.
glio
Oh! She is as difficult to get as the snake-bead.
DU
Jaivarma laughed and said
Next day king Dvimukh came to see Chandpradyot. Finding Chandpradyot gloomy, he asked
PUIERA
King! Why there is a shadow of gloom on your face? Any problem? Do you find my hospitality lacking any way?
King! I have considered you a friend. It is my duty to remove the misery of a friend.... Please do not
hesitate to tell me....
100
SCUITIOாவானு.
No Sire! Nothing lacks in your arrangements. However, there are certain miseries that are difficult to express....
29

Page #34

Getting this assurance from Dvimukh Chandpradyot said
Sire! One day I saw the princess sitting in the balcony. I don't know what happened to me. As if some inspiration from my earlier births made me fall in love with her.... I want to marry the princess.
SECCGE
PRATYEK-BUDDHA DVIMUKH

King Dvimukh was taken aback. But soon his eyes glowed. A great king like Chandpradyot was seeking the hand of his daughter. It was like a windfall. He replied with joy
1000
5
O King of Malava! Don't get disheartened. I promise to fulfill your desire.
With great fanfare Dvimukh married Madanmanjari to Chandpradyot and also returned the kingdom of Malava.
O king! My daughter,
Madanmanjari, will fill your life with happiness.
Please take her proper care.
Gl
With these words he unshackled
Chandpradyot.
N
Chandpradyot returned to Avanti with all pomp and show.
30

Page #35

PRATYEK-BUDDHA DVIMUKH
A few days later the Indra festival was celebrated in Kampilyapur. Many great kings including Chandpradyot were invited. At the main square a huge flag-post with colourful small silken flags and a large flag post known as Indra-dhwaj was erected. On the full moon day the king, his ministers and commanders worshiped the ceremonial flag post
Vaime
AD O O O O O O O O O O vo
Oh! how huge and grand is this Indra-flag!
Its decoration is unique!
www

really
After the ceremony the guests returned. The costly decorations on the flag post were removed. Deserted by the pulsating and celebrating crowds the square became desolate. The flag-post fell on the ground. Dogs and other street animals defecated near it and a stink filled the atmosphere.
F F F F F F
As if it is kissing the sky!
A day or two later Dvimukh passed from there. The miserable state of the once grand flag post triggered a chain of thoughts
20000com
One day thousands of people worshipped this flag post as if it was some divine image. And today it is in such decrepit state....
For Private 3ersonal Use Only

Page #36

PRATYEK-BUDDHA DVIMUKH
Dvimukh attained an inner awakening. He thought
....And the king went deeper and deeper into his thoughts
Celebrations one day and gloom the next. That which is worshipped one day is insulted the very next day. This state of the Indra-dhwaj is
the reality of life for
every individual.
In the same way all the pleasures and
enjoyments in this world end in despair
and pain.
KVA
ES
Not moving from the spot Dvimukh took off his regal attire including the divine crown and resolved to renounce his kingdom to commence spiritual practices. The gods gave him the attire of an ascetic.
sh
Coooo
109
jams
King Dvimukh renounced the ephemeral mundane pleasures and commenced spiritual practices. He had become a Pratyek-buddha.
For Privae 3sonal use only
THE END wwwjamembrary.org

Page #37

Bhagwan
Neminath
Miracles of Namokar Mantra
Compassionate BHAWAN MAHAVI
Princes
Chandanbala
Colourful Chitra Katha (Comics) based on famous Jain Subjects.
EEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE

The simplest and easiest way to get acquainted with Jain religion, philosophy, culture, history and way of life. Entertaining as well as informative, these picture books make the incidents from the life of the persons you revere come alive. They open up the glorious past of the Jain culture for you and your m children.
One year Subscription Two year Subscription Three year Subscription
Price Rs. 20/- each book
Published Title:
+Bhagwan Parshwanath
+Wisdom Stories of Abhay Kumar
+Kshamadan
Rs. 240/Rs. 480/Rs. 720/
+Moral Stories of Bhagwan Mahavir +Bhagwan Shanti Nath +Miracles of Namokar Mantra +The Fortune Rich Dhanna +Bhagwan Mahavir Vol. I & II + Princess Chandanbala +Bhagwan Rishabhdev + Reap What You Sow
Please send your subscription amount by Draft/M.O. to any of the following addressee
MAHAVIR SEVA TRUST
C/o DR. M. B. JAIN, B-29/30, YOJANA APTS., S. V. ROAD, MALAD (WEST), MUMBAI-400 064 TEL.: 8892121/8811397 FEDERATION OF JAIN ASSOCIATIONS IN NORTH AMERICA (JAINA)
C/o DR. P. B. GADA, 4410, 50TH STREET, LUBBOCK, TEXAS-79414 (U.S.A.)
DIWAKAR PRAKASHAN
(for 12 Books) (for 24 Books) (for 36 Books)
+Maha Sati Madan Rekha + Miracles of Siddhachakra + The Inspiring Story of
Megh Kumar
+Prince Shrenik
+ Play of Fate +Bhagwan Mallinath
+ The Young Yogi Jambu Kumar + Sati Anjana Sundari +Bhagwan Neminath + Jagat Guru
Shree Heer Vijay Suri + The Awakening of Karkandu
A-7, AWAGARH HOUSE, OPP. ANJNA CINEMA, M. G. ROAD, AGRA-282 002 TEL.: 351165, 51789
BBBBBBBBEEBEEEEEEEEEE

TT
TT
TT

Page #38
bo) FOLLOW THE CODE OF CONDUCT AS LONG AS... Addressing one with a desire to follow the spiritual path, it is stated : Follow the code of conduct as long as age does not atrophy the body, disease does not weaken or emaciate the body, and the sense organs like eyes, ears, nose and limbs are not disabled. In other words--engage in study, meditation, service to others, charity and other such good deeds without any delay. Dasavaikalika Sutra (Chapter 8, verse 35) Jain Education Interational Beate Rersonale www.amelibrary.org