Jain Legend Vol 2

Author(s): Hastimal Maharaj, Shuganchand Jain, P S Surana
Publisher: Hastimal Maharaj Shugan C Jain P S Surana

Page 227

the King, Siddhasena started praying to the true form of the Lord by chanting some verses ( lokas). As he recited only a few lokas, the idol of P r van tha appeared emitting dazzling light.
Thus witnessing the many miracles of the will power of Siddhasena, King Vikram ditya became his devotee. In like manner, in seven years, Siddhasena converted 18 kings into Jain Dharma by enlightening them with his sermons. It is said that though there were still five years left in his contrition, the congregation pleased with his work as an exalter of Jainism granted him amnesty and pardoned the remaining period of punishment. It is believed that King Vikram ditya performed many righteous deeds under the influence of Siddhasena. Inspired by crya Siddhasena, King Vikram ditya became the follower of Jainism and worked towards the benefit of the people.
c rya Siddhasena was a distinguished scholar, a great exalter of Jainism, eloquent orator, proficient administrator and an eminent litterateur. The evidence of his versatility is available in the form of his extensive literary works. He was the author of important books like Ny yavat ra, Sanmati Tarka, 32 Dw trim ik em, Nay vat ra, Kalaya Mandira Stotra, and the commentary on the exposition of Gandhahast on
cr mga, etc.
From the accounts of Prabh vaka Caritra, Prabhandha Ko , etc., it is evident that he belonged to the 1st century of Vikram era. His father's name was Deva i and Mother was Deva r. They were Brahmins of K ty yana lineage. It is said that prior to his initiation, to flaunt his erudition, he used to wear an iron band around his waist, and hold a pick axe in one hand and ladder in the other while walking on the streets. An objective analysis of all the incidents reveals the fact that the authors sometimes weaved exaggerations of the truth for amusing the readers. The appearance of the idol may also be one such exaggeration.
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