Nandishen Diwakar Chitrakatha 048

Author(s): Nityanandsuri, Chidanandmuni, Shreechand Surana
Publisher: Mahavir Seva Trust Mumbai

Page 18

In order to shed his karmas, ascetic Nandishen observed the Chhattha Tap* Once he set out to beg alms to break his two day fast. Wandering around he came to an unknown village. Standing at the gate of a house he uttered
Dharmalabh!**
May you be blessed with piety.
The mockery by the courtesan inflamed the anger and ego of the ascetic.
This mean courtesan is making fun of me. She is ignorant of my powers.
NANDISHEN
The ascetic drew a straw from the thatch,
Wow
This happened to be the residence of a courtesan. She came at the gate and broke into laughter on seeing the ascetic
O ascetic! Where have you come? Here money is needed not piety. I do not require piety. I crave for wealth.
He waved the straw and at once there was a shower of gems. The courtesan saw this and was wonder struck. What?! He appears to be some great man.
A series of two day fasting intervened by a day of meals. As a result of this harsh austerity he was endowed with many special powers. 16 Jain Education International