Gommateshvara Commemoration Volume

Author(s): T G Kalghatgi
Publisher: Parshwanath Shodhpith Varanasi

Page 80

Inscriptions on Sallek hanā ar Srayanabelgola
inscription that we find on the hill regarding observance of Sallekhanā by an ascetic.
Sallekhana by Householders
All the aforesaid inscriptions except the epitaph in relation to Indra Rāja refer to ascetics and a nun. But the vow of Sallekhanā appears to have become famous both for sits piety and sanctity on account of the religious austerities observed by ascetics of renowned character and deep religious knowledge. The doctrines of Jainism were then popular and had attracted numerous followers. As I have already stated Jainism must have been a popular religion in the area since a Sruta Kevalin like Bhadrabāhu with his 12000 monks and nuns expected a devoted and hospitable reception. Therefore, there is nothing surprising if numerous householders, both men and women, accepted the vow of Sallekhana on the hill and breathed their last.
There are inscriptions (like No. 17-700 A. D.) where the names are erased and the only portion that can be deciphered is that he or she observed the vow on the holy hill. One Jambu Nāyagir observed the vow at the holy place and ended her life (No. 18-700 A. D.). Similarly one Nagamati Gantiyar was a disciple of an ascetic at Chittur. She observed the vow for a period of three months and left her body (No. 20-700 A. D.). One Pegurama is said to have attained the world of gods and he was honoured by his sons (No. 26-700 A. D.).
Since all the inscriptions except one referred in the two paragraphs relate to the year 700 A. D., I have mentioned only the number of inscription at the end of the description. Vaijabbe was the daughter of Bettadeva. She observed the vow of Sanyasana on the holy hill (No. 68-950 A. D.). Saśimatiganti of stainless austerities and virtues, was possessed of noble qualities and unstinted devotion. She was also well-read. She came to Kalbetta and felt that she was nearing her end. She observed the vow of Sanyasana on the top of the hill and ascended the heavenly abode (No. 76). Sasimati Ganti was a lady of noble character and performed many devotional actions. Her study of scriptures was extensive. She came to Kaļvappu and felt that her life was coming to a close. She observed the vow of Sanyasana on the top of the mountain 'which is described as Tirthagiri or holy hill and ascended the heavenly abode (No. 77). This inscription also seems to refer to the Sanyasana of another person but the name is erased.
Rājamati Ganti of the holy Namiļūr Sangha was renowned for her character and virtues. She went up the hill, adopted Sanyasana and ascended to the abode of gods (No: 97). The firm-minded Anantamati Ganti of Namilūr Sangha observed the vow on the mountain of Kaļbappu and attained the state of matchless happiness in the world of gods (No. 98). Māvi-abbe severed the worldly bonds with eagerness, ascended the hill and attained the happiness of gods (No. 107). Āryā