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CHAPTER XI JAIN ANTIQUITIES IN BHAGALPUR The ancient Anga Desha comprises of the present districts of Bhagalpur and Monghyr. Anga Desha, along with Magadha and Kasi-Kosala, were tbe areas particularly visited by Mahavira. According to the list in the Kalpa Sutra Mabavira had passed three rainy seasons at Champa, which was the capital of Anga. During Mahavira's time Bimbisara conquered Anga and annexed it to Magadba. The capital Champa is identified with the two villages of Champanagar and Champapur near Bhagalpur, the headquarters town of the district. Even a casual visit to the area replete with mounds and high earthen walls will suggest that this riverine area is ancient.
Dr. Bimla Churn Law in his book “Mahavira : His Life and Teachings" (Luzac & Co., 1937) observes :
“The people of Anga-Magadha were equally proud to think that their country was ballowed by the presence of so great a teacher and guide as Mabavira. According to the UttaradhyanaSutra, King Srenika Bimbisara of Magadha paid the following glowing tribute to Mahavira when he met bim at Rajagrha : 'You have made the best use of human birth, you bave made a true Jina,... ....you are a protector (of mankind at large) and of your relations, for you have entered the path of the best Jinas.' Even we are told that forthwith the king, together with his wives, servants, and relations, became a staunch believer in the law, with a pure mind."
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