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Shri Mahavir Jain Aradhana Kendra
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12
Bhṭṭāraka Sampradaya
and similar technical subjects, which were written by Jaina teachers of past, were regularly studied by the disciples of every learned Bhaṭṭāraka. Several copies of these works were prepared for this purpose only. The udyapana ceremony of every Vrata usually consisted of a donation of some manuscript to some Bhaṭṭāraka.
Acharya Shri Kailassagarsuri Gyanmandir
7. Social activities
By virtue of their position as a religions teacher Bhaṭṭārakas were above the level of caste distinctions. But this aspect of Hindu Culture had so much influence on Jaina society that it could not be ignored. Every seat of Bhaṭṭārakas was generally associated with one particular caste.
Bhaṭṭārakas often arranged long pilgrimages with a large number of followers. In this respect, Srutasagara Sūri's visit to Gajapantha and various pilgrimages of Devendrakirti (Third) of Karanja are noteworthy. Bhaṭṭarakas sometimes looked after the management of the holy places, for instance, Shri Mahavirji was managed by Bhaṭṭarakas of Jaipur.
Many times, non-Jain students came to receivein learng from Bhaṭṭārakas. The names of Pt. Haji, Saiva Madhava, Bhupati Prajna Miśra and Dvija Viśvanatha are notable in this respect.
Bhaṭṭārakas were supposed to possess miraculous powers gained through some Mantras. To walk through air, to remove the effect of poison, to make stone-image speak are some of the miracles ascribed to various Bhaṭṭärakas.
The Mathas of Bhaṭṭärakas were centres of various social functions. This provided an occasion for preservation of various arts. Many references are found to music, painting, sculpture, dancing and other arts.
8. Interrelations
There was no principle for which there could be a serious dispute between different seats of Bhaṭṭārakas. Their inter-relations rested entirely on personal attitude. Śribhuṣaṇa of Nanditatagachchha had worst relations with Vadichadra of Balatkaragaṇa, but Indrabhuṣaṇa of the same line had good relations with all.
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