________________
50
fortunate enough to continue the prosperous Rashtrakuta rule, which was destined to disappear not-withstanding the gallant efforts made by him with the help of the Ganga. king Marasimha?. He became disgusted with the world and retired to Shravanabelagola, in order to observe the religious Vows. His worldly failure did not mar his martial spirit, rather he shone as a hero in the realm of spirit. Indraraj adopted the vow of sallekhana and he Kamagandamanahalli inscription informs us hat with an undisturbed mind performing the vows he world-renowned Indraraja. gained the glory of king of all gods (Indra). - Evidently the golden example of religious heroism iet by Tirthankara Mahavira was followed by the great monarchs of the Rashtrakuta family. And it was 'due to the royal patronage of Jainism that most of the population of the Deccan at the time was following the gospel of Lord Mahavira. It was not only the Rashtrakuta monarchs, but their feudatory kings also, as well as generals, ministers and merchants observed the vow of Ahimsa. The doctrine of Ahimsa prevailed during the Rashtrakuta period in South India and its effect on the character of the people produced the highest type of morality"
1. Altekar, The Rashtrakutas, p. 312.. 2. Ep:, car:, XII, Si. 27, p.92..
