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Shri Mahavir Jain Aradhana Kendra
www.kobatirth.org
Acharya Shri Kailassagarsuri Gyanmandir
Introduction
13
9. Other religious sects
References are found to various disputes between these Bhattā raka Institution and Vedic scholars, Svetāmbara sect and the Terāpantha. The last was particularly against the system of Bhattārakas. Disputes with Svetāmbaras often resulted from the question of possession of some holy places. 10. Relation with Rulers
No king was following Jainism in the age of Bhattārkas. Some ministers, no doubt, were from Jaina families. There was no hostility with any particular ruler. Jaina society continued its work peacefully even during the reign of all Moghul emperors Akbar recieved special honour for his sympathetic attitude. Relations with the Tomar dynasty of Gwalior also seem to be notably good. Visits to courts of various Hindu and Muslim rulers are often referred to. 11. Conclusion
Thus it would be clear that the Bhattāraka tradition played an important part in the history of Mediaeval Jaina society. This book, though containing the account of only a part of the tradition contains references to some 400 Bhattārakas, their 175 disciples, 309 literary compositions, 90 temples, 31 castes; 100 rulers and 200 places. With more sources utilised, their figures can be easily doubled.
The age. as it was, was not very glorious But some personalities deserve attention. Jaina history will remain incomplete without the mention of Sakalakirti, Sibhachandra and Jinachandra. History of rise gives inspiration. History of downfall gives lessons. Bɔth are necsssary for a growing society. With this view, we hope, this topic will recieve due attention, though it was so far completely neglected.
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