Book Title: Jainism The Cosmic Vision
Author(s): Kumarpal Desai
Publisher: UK Mahavir Foundation London

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Page 107
________________ Jainism : The Cosmic Vision of thunder and lightning. Chandapradyota, the proud king, could not reject the royal king Udayan's challenge to a duel and in no time he was defeated. The adamantine body of Udayan was so strong that even this lustful king, who knew a thousand treacheries, could not defeat him. Soon he fell supine and was bound in iron chains. King Udayan became victorious. King Udayan entered the kingdom of Avanti. He spread the message of non-violence and declared that the innocent would be protected, and that nobody should fear brute strength. King Pradyota was imprisoned and the words 'a maid-servant's husband' were written on his forehead. Thus, king Udayan conquered Avanti and returned. These were the days of the months of Shravana and Bhadrapada. This devotee of Bhagwan stopped the march of the army for the eight days of Paryushana and pitched his tents at a safe place. The Samvatsari day came. In the morning King Udayan said, “We shall fast today. But don't keep them hungry who do not fast.” The chief cook of the army said, “Sir, all others have followed you. Only the prisoner Chandapradyota remains to be asked." King Udayan said, "Ask him, but don't starve him. Ask him his wish and then cook.” The chief cook went to ask king Chandapradyota. Chandapradyota asked the question and tried to know why only on that day. The chief cook of the kitchen explained it all to him, but the deceitful mind of Chandapradyota had a doubt. He thought that perhaps it was a plan to give him poison in his food. So he, too, thought of fasting. King Chandapradyota said, “I am also a follower of 90 Jain Education International For Private & Personal Use Only www.jainelibrary.org

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