International Jain Conference 1985 3rd Conference

Author(s): Satish Jain, Kamalchand Sogani
Publisher: Ahimsa International

Page 196

achievement of salvation by women in the same birth. Otherwise also the South India has a rich tradition of illustrious women of the Jaina community.
Numerous women hailed from royal families and the homes of ministers and generals following Jaina religion. They were great devotees of Jainism and have promoted the cause of religion by spending lavishly in constructing Jaina shrines, groves, watersheds and bathing places and bestowing gifts of food, medicine, knowledge and shelter. More than this, they occupied not only the positions of officers and successful administrators, but also took active part in fighting the enemy in defence of their native land. We learn that Lakkale or Lakshamimati, the wife of the general Gangraja, has been called the Lady of Victory, who participated in fighting the battle side by side of her husband. Queen Bhairavadevi ruled over the territory of Geresoppe (Joag Falls) in the 16th century A.D., and defeated the neighbouring chieftains when attacked by his army. Then we are told about the brave woman Abbakkadevi of Moodbidri (South Canara) who is known for giving a stiff fight to the Portuguese in the battle-field.
Our purpose here is not to discuss whether a woman can attain spiritual salvation in this birth. The question does not arise, as according to Jaina tradition neither sex is permitted to achieve salvation in the existing age. But surely we are concerned with the liberation of women from her social bondage by which she is tightly tied up. She is neither safe in the market place nor while travelling by rail or public bus. The cases of eve teasing are growing every day so much so that the Government is seriously contemplating to enact a law to that effect. The incidents of rapes are reported to have increased during the recent years and the toll of horrifying deaths of young women due to inadequate dowry are on increase day by day. Under the circumstances, if the mission of Jainism preaching equality of both sexes is to be rightly fulfilled and their status is to be raised in our society, women have to be provided with social and economic equality as provided to men. Then only they will be emancipated from the man-made bondage and will be able to realise their identity.
28 Shivaji Park Bombay
Ego, anger, delusion, Idleness aad disease, Such are giants five, Which obstructs learning.
Uttaradhyayana, Chap. XI-3
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