Stories From Jainism

Author(s): Mrugendramuni
Publisher: Jain Yoga Foundation

Page 14

BAHUBALI
I ord Rishabhdeo had a son named Bharat. He
I wanted to be the sovereign over all kings. Hence, he returned home after conquering all the kings of India. But he soon realized that his younger brother Bahubali was not under his suzerainty. Hence, he sent a messenger to Bahubali, the King of Taksashila to come to him. He hoped that Bahubali would surrender to him.
But Bahubali was not prepared to see his brother, as a vassal. When Bharat came to know this, he was very much angry. He, therefore, ordered his army to march and invade Taksashila.
A long battle was fought. Many people were killed but there was no decisive outcome. Bharat saw that much of his army was decimated. Hence, he felt very anxious.
After the battle, Bahubali went to see his brother. He wanted to know if Bharat had any trouble.
Then Bharat suggested to Bahubali to stop the war and proposed a duel between the two. Bahubali agreed to this.
They decided to wage five kinds of duels. In four of the duels, Bharat was defeated. There remained only the duel to