Jain Legend Vol 3

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

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Hoyasala dynasty (V.N. 1531-1647)
In 972 AD, due to the defeat of 20th ruler of R rak a dynasty King Karka R ja by C lukya R ja Taila and the fall of the seat of R rak a dynasty M nyakhe a (M lakdheda), Jainism was devoid of royal patronage for some time. During that period, followers of aiva and Vai ava religions with royal patronage of some rulers started a series of many sided cruel blows to Jainism and its followers. As a result, the popular and strong religion of south i.e. Jainism slowly and slowly started becoming feeble and weak.
How to revive and rejuvenate the downslide of Jainism became a constant source of worry and discussion amongst the followers and
c ryas of Jainism. After extended discussions, they all came to conclusion that the only way to stop this downslide of Jainism and regain its original glory, it is essential to seek royal patronage for Jainism from some strong and powerful rulers.
During the period of these discussions, a serious Jain c rya Sudatta, with strong determination to let Jainism out of this rut by gaining royal patronage of a dedicated Jain strong ruler, was in deep meditation and contemplations in Vika a forest habitat Amdagai. At that time a young man of Y dava clan arrived at that place of meditation of Sudatta. After paying obeisance and veneration to c rya Sudatta he sat in front of him. On being asked by crya, he identified himself as 'Sala'. The c rya deep in his heart felt that this young man has all the prerequisites which he was looking for in the saviour of Jainism. With these thoughts, he went in deep contemplations on Padm vat and that k atriya young man continued gazing at the c rya, sitting in front of the c rya. After a few moments, that place resonated with the loud roar of a lion. On completion of his meditation, the c rya opened his eyes and saw a giant lion gushing towards both him and the young man. Seeing the fearless and firm young k atriya prince in front of him, addressing the young man, crya Sudatta ordered in the language of that prince' poya sala' i.e. O Sala, kill it.
Obeying with highest regards the order of his teacher, prince Sala killed in one stroke, the lion galloping towards c rya Sudatta.
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