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Theme and aim of the epigraphs/31
speak and therefore the name balātkāragana originated. The secular name of KKA being Padma (nandi), got the former surname because he belonged to the place of Kondakunda, the modern Konakondla in AP.
The piñcha of the Jaina ascetic, reached its height of apogee of worldly respect and recognition, when the Gangas accepted it as auspicious symbol, and accorded a place of honor by including it in their royal insignia. The Gangas are recognised as the bearer of Pinchadhvaja, a banner of peacock feather - Kuvalālapureśvaram .. bhagavad arhanmumukṣu pinchadhvaja vibhūşanam [1A. XVIII p. 300. C. 11th cent. C.E.). The Gangas were born to protect Jinadharmma of the Kailāsa mountain: Kailasa-saila jinadharmma suraksaņārtham [EC. VII-I(BLR) Shimoga No. 10.C.E. 1085. p. 19). Kailāsa (Aştāpada) is sacred to jainas because Rşabha, the first Tirthankara, attained nirvana, release from bondage on the summit of Mount Kailāsa [Nirvāņa-bhakti).
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