________________
In the Vaidika tradition, there is mention of a bird named Pjanik who tore Brahmadatta's eyes, whereas in the Jain tradition this is done by a shepherd on being told by a Brahmin acquaintance of Brahmadatta.
In spite of so many similarities there is vast difference when it comes to the time period of Brahmadatta between both the traditions. In "Harivam a” there is reference to Brahmadatta having existed long before the Mah bh rata time but in contrast, the Jain texts and gamas mention Brahmadatta's existence long after the nirva of the P davas. Along with the life history of the T rthamkara, Baladevas, Vasudevas and PratiVasudevas, their time period is given in a similar manner in all the agamic texts of the Jain tradition. Hence, there is no scope for doubt in the Jain tradition regarding their time periods. If historians were to look for mostly the common points of description of Brahmadatta in both these ancient traditions of India, certainly it will be of use in linking up a chain in India's ancient history.
*****
232