________________
he went to Vipulachal hill and left his mundane body after observing the ultimate vow. He reincarnated as a god in the Achyut kalp.
12. CHANDANBALA
In every chapter of 7th and 8th sections of Antakriddasha Sutra there are mentions of Arya Chandanbala. She was the head of the organization of 36,000 female ascetics of Bhagavan Mahavir's order.
The pre-initiation period of Chandanbala's life is a sensational and poignant story of grave afflictions. The name her parent gave to her was Vasumati. She got the name Chandanbala because of her disposition was as cool as sandalwood (chandan). Sandalwood is always soothing irrespective of its being cut, chiseled or ground. In the same way, in face of grave afflictions, sorrows and insults Chandanbala never became angry. neither did she blame anyone. She always remained cool like chandan. That is why the name inspired by her virtues became popular in Jain tradition.
Vasumati was the daughter of king Dadhivahan and queen Dharini of Champa. By nature she was very sober and thoughtful.
That was a period when territorial ambitions were at its peak. Kings attacked each other for no rhyme or reason.
Shatanik, the king of Kaushambi, attacked Champa. King Dadhivahan eloped. The soldiers of Kaushambi were free to raid the city of Champa.
A charioteer kidnapped queen Dharini and Vasumati. Taking them in his chariot he came into a jungle and stopped at a forlorn place. When he approached queen Dharini with his pervert desires, the queen. in order to save her honour, committed suicide by pulling out her tongue. The charioteer was dumb struck and disappointed. He took Vasumati as his foster daughter.
With Vasumati he returned home to Kaushambi. When his wife saw Vasumati she was filled with jealousy and doubt. She started quarrels and altercations in the household.
Forced to take some action, the charioteer brought Vasumati to the crossing in Kaushambi where slaves were auctioned. Merchant Dhanava bought Vasumatı and brought her home.
Dhanava was a religious man and observer of twelve shravak vows. But his wife Mula was of suspicious nature. She was filled with the doubt that the merchant will make the beautiful girl his wife and consequently her own condition will become miserable. She decided to somehow get rid of the girl. She eagerly awaited an opportunity and soon she got one.
Merchant Dhanava went to nearby villages on some work. He told Mula that he will return after three days.
Antakriddasha Mahima
Jain Education International
For Private
Personal Use Only
૪૬૭
www.jainelibrary.org
