Bhagwan Rushabhdev Ke Putra Gommatesh Bahubali

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Bhagwan Rishabhdev ke Putra Gommatesh Bahubali" (Bhagwan Shri Rishabh Dev's Son, Gommatesh Bahubali) by Dr. Chakravarthi Nainar Devakumar:

This monograph, published in 2018, serves as an introduction to Bhagwan Bahubali and his iconic statue at Shravanbelgola, Karnataka, coinciding with the 88th Mahamastakabhishek. The book explores the lineage, life, penance, and legacy of Bahubali, situating him within the broader context of Jainism and Indian history.

Key Themes and Content:

• Introduction to Bhagwan Rishabh Dev: The book begins by introducing Bhagwan Rishabh Dev, the first Tirthankar and founder of Jainism in the current era. It highlights his role as the architect of human civilization, credited with organizing society and introducing essential economic activities like agriculture, education, art, defense, commerce, and engineering. His daughters, Brahmi and Sundari, are recognized for their contributions to scriptology and mathematics. The text also touches upon his veneration in Hindu scriptures and its possible connections to Indus Valley Civilization.

• Bharat and Bahubali - The Brothers: The narrative then focuses on Rishabh Dev's sons, Bharat and Bahubali.

  • Bharat: The elder son, known for his courage and valor, who would become a Chakravarti (Emperor).
  • Bahubali: Younger, known for his exceptional handsomeness (earning him the epithet Kamadev) and unparalleled valor. He is primarily remembered for three key aspects:
    1. Freedom of Expression: He bravely waged war against his elder brother, demonstrating an early advocacy for freedom of expression, even when it meant conflict.
    2. Karmayoga: He was the first "Karmayogi" to renounce the fruits of victory before the practice became widespread.
    3. Supreme Penance: He is celebrated as the first model saint to undertake the most rigorous forms of penance.

• The Bharat-Bahubali Conflict: The text details the conflict between the brothers arising when Bharat's Chakraratna halted at Bahubali's fort, signifying that Bahubali had not yet accepted Bharat's supremacy. After their 98 brothers chose renunciation, Bahubali refused to submit. The ministers proposed a duel to resolve the dispute without bloodshed. This duel consisted of three rounds: Gaze Combat (Drishti Yudh), Water Combat (Jal Yudh), and Wrestling (Malla Yudh). Bahubali won the first two easily, and in the wrestling, he lifted Bharat but then, overcome by compassion, gently put him down. Bharat, humiliated, ordered the Chakraratna to kill Bahubali, but the divine weapon respectfully circumambulated Bahubali and returned. Disillusioned by Bharat's greed and the resulting conflict, Bahubali renounced the world and went to the forest for penance.

• Mahamuni Bahubali's Supreme Penance: In the forest, Bahubali entered a state of Kayotsarga (standing in meditation). Despite a year of intense penance, he did not attain omniscience. During this time, creepers encircled his body, and termite mounds formed beneath his feet, preventing him from moving lest he harm living beings. The bitter memories of his conflict with Bharat also troubled his mind. The text notes that his enlightenment was delayed due to his ego, as described by Acharya Kundkund in "Bhava Pahud." His enlightenment was finally achieved when Bharat, guided by Rishabh Dev, approached him. Bharat's sister's metaphorical advice to "get off the elephant" (symbolizing ego) and Bharat's own apology helped Bahubali overcome his misgivings and attain enlightenment, leading to eventual Moksha.

• The Last Srutakevali Bhadrabahu and Chandragupta Maurya: The book highlights Bhadrabahu as the last Srutakevali (one who has complete knowledge of Jain scriptures) and the last head of undivided Jainism. He migrated to Shravanbelgola with 12,000 saints to escape a famine in North India. The text strongly suggests that Bhadrabahu was none other than Chanakya, the mentor of Emperor Chandragupta Maurya. Chandragupta Maurya, the first emperor to unite India, also renounced his throne and became a Jain Acharya named Vishakaacharya, propagating Jainism in South India. His association with Bhadrabahu and the subsequent migration is considered a significant event in Indian history.

• Shravanbelgola and the Statue: The book describes Shravanbelgola as the location of the magnificent monolithic statue of Bhagwan Gommatesh Bahubali. It details the two hills, Chandragiri and Vindhyagiri, and their historical and religious significance. The origin of the name "Belgola" is discussed, as well as the addition of "Shravan" by Emperor Ashok. The vast number of inscriptions found in the area, dating back centuries, are noted for revealing the history of various dynasties and the development of the Kannada language. The statue itself was voted as the first of the Seven Wonders of India by readers of The Times of India in 2007.

• Chavundaraya and the Statue's Creation: Chavundaraya, the commander-in-chief of the Western Ganga dynasty, is credited with commissioning the grand statue of Bahubali in 981 AD. This act was motivated by a dream shared by him, his mother Kalala Devi, and his guru Acharya Nemichandra Siddhanta Chakravarti. The text recounts the story of the chief sculptor, Chagad, who, after demanding gold dust equal to the stone removed, was taught a lesson by his mother about selfless service. Chagad's renunciation of wages earned him the name "Tyagad" (one who sacrifices), and a pillar was erected in his honor.

• Other Aspects:

  • Other Statues of Bahubali: The book mentions the historical presence of Bahubali images dating back to the 4th century CE, predating the Shravanbelgola statue, found in Aihole and Badami caves. It also notes the spread of his imagery across India and its resemblance to ancient Greek art.
  • Famous Ladies: Brahmi (Bahubali's sister), Kalala Devi (Chavundaraya's mother), and Danachintamani Atimabbey are highlighted for their significant contributions and devotion related to Bahubali and Jainism.
  • Various Versions of the Story: Different accounts of Bahubali's story from Jain scriptures like "Mahapurana," "Paumacharyam," and "Bhava Pahud" are presented, including variations in the details of his penance and enlightenment.
  • Gommata and Other Names: Bahubali is also known as Gommata, meaning "handsome" in Konkani, and other epithets like Gommateshwara and Kukkuteshwara.
  • Lessons from the Story: The book concludes by summarizing the key lessons from the Bharat-Bahubali narrative, emphasizing freedom of expression, renunciation of victory's fruits, exemplary penance, the awakening against greed, the influence on Lord Krishna, the devotion of Chavundaraya, the glory of selfless service, and the taming of ego.
  • Hymns and Travel Information: The book includes hymns dedicated to Bhagwan Bahubali and practical information on how to reach Shravanbelgola.

In essence, "Bhagwan Rishabhdev ke Putra Gommatesh Bahubali" provides a rich overview of the life, philosophy, and enduring significance of Bhagwan Bahubali, a pivotal figure in Jainism, and his monumental statue, which continues to inspire devotion and awe.