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[10] GENEROUS JAGADU SHAH
(Generosity)
Generous Jagadu Shah
(1) In Vikram Samvat 14th Century, Jagdu Shah, a gentlemen of Kutch was told by a Jain monk that in future there would be a severe drought, and the Jain monk told him to donate food grains and make good use of his money. Jagadu Shah had utmost faith in the monk and believed his words completely. The imagination of the hungry faces of all drought-stricken people appeared before his eyes. (2) Before the drought, for many years, Jagadu Shah collected and stored huge amount of grain in granaries all over Kutch and Gujarat. When drought struck the region, he donated all the grains to the needy. (3) At that time even Gujarat's King Vishaldev's granaries had no grains. Therefore even the King asked him for some grain. But he said that the grain was meant for the poor and the needy. Hearing this the King was shocked and appreciated Jagadu Shah's generosity, kindness and humility. (4) Later, ocean of Auchintya (One who knows what is right under difference circumstances) Jagadu Shah, gave grains to the King as he believed that donation is the foundation of religion and even more, donation of food makes your foe, your friend. Centuries have passed but yet his name is amongst one of the most generous men. Bravo Jagadu Shah!!
Inspired By: Jain Acharya Shri Bhuvanbhanusuriswarji Maharajsaheb
