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XVII
INDRA'S EXIT
In the present age many people are ready to sacrifice their self-respect and character in order to get on in this world. Probably, such people may not believe that there was an age in the past when people preferred death to disgrace and were ready to die in order to safeguard their status and self-respect. They died cheerfully to safeguard their character and selfrespect. For the sake of safeguarding their self-respect and honour, they sacrificed their lives. Such a magnificent tradition existed once.
Of course, the father Sahastrar impelled by the affection for his son approached Ravan and got Indra released from Ravan's prison-house but eventhough he had been released Indra had no peace of mind. When his self-respect had been torn to pieces, continuing to exist in this world was more painful to him than death itself. After returning to Ratanupur, Indra was always to be seen in a mood of depression. He never conversed with anyone. He seemed to be brooding over something deeply. He did not mix with others and did not enjoy eating, drinking or talking jocularly in their company. He was alone in his chamber always thinking deeply, bearing the burden of existence with great difficulty. Just at that time, once a guard of the forest brought the news that a great Muni who was serene like the moon and radiant like the sun had come to the garden outside the city. Indra was a little startled and said: "What is his name ?”
“Nirvanasangam”.
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