Chandanbala

This Jain text, "Chandanbala," tells the story of Princess Vasumati, who, after her kingdom is defeated, is captured and sold into slavery.

Early Life and Capture: Princess Vasumati was the daughter of King Dadhivahan and Queen Dharini of Champapuri. During a war with King Shatänik of Kaushambi, her father was defeated. Vasumati and her mother attempted to escape but were captured by an enemy soldier. The soldier intended to marry the queen and sell Vasumati. This shock caused the queen to die. The soldier then took Vasumati to Kaushambi to sell her.

Adoption and New Name: In the slave market, a compassionate merchant named Dhanävah saw Vasumati. Recognizing her noble bearing, he realized she was not an ordinary slave and felt pity for her potential fate. He bought her and brought her home, treating her like his own daughter. As Vasumati remained silent about her past, Dhanävah and his wife, Moolä, named her Chandanbala.

Moola's Suspicion and Cruelty: While Chandanbala was dutiful and affectionate, Moolä grew suspicious of her husband's fondness for the girl. She feared Dhanävah might marry Chandanbala due to her beauty. Moolä's suspicions intensified when she witnessed an innocent gesture: Chandanbala washing Dhanävah's feet, and Dhanävah gently tucking her hair back. Seeing this, Moolä decided to get rid of Chandanbala.

Chandanbala's Ordeal: When Dhanävah left for a three-day business trip, Moolä seized the opportunity. She had Chandanbala's head shaved, tied her legs with heavy shackles, and locked her in a room, threatening the other servants into silence. Moolä then left for her parents' home.

Discovery and Lord Mahavir's Encounter: Upon Dhanävah's return, he couldn't find Chandanbala or Moolä. The terrified servants, fearing Moolä, were reluctant to reveal Chandanbala's whereabouts. Finally, an elderly servant, driven by compassion and a disregard for her own impending death, revealed Moolä's cruel actions. Dhanävah found Chandanbala in the locked room. He freed her from the shackles and went to find food. He could only find boiled lentils. As Chandanbala was about to eat, she decided to offer food to a monk or nun first. She encountered Lord Mahavir, who was on a specific vow. He would only accept alms from a princess who was bald, in shackles, offering boiled lentils with one foot inside and one foot outside the house, and with tears in her eyes. Chandanbala met all conditions except the tears. Lord Mahavir initially walked away, making Chandanbala cry. Her tears satisfied the final condition, and Lord Mahavir accepted her offering, thus ending his long fast.

Restoration and Spiritual Path: The text states that Lord Mahavir's fast had lasted for five months and twenty-five days. Upon his acceptance of the alms, Chandanbala was miraculously restored: her shackles broke, her hair regrew, and she was dressed as a princess. This attracted the attention of King Shatanik and his entourage. A servant from her father's kingdom recognized her as Princess Vasumati. King Shatanik and his queen then recognized her and invited her to live with them. Later, after Lord Mahavir attained perfect knowledge, Chandanbala took initiation (Diksha) and became the first nun (Sadhvi) in the Jain Sangha, eventually becoming the head nun. She later attained Keval-jnan (perfect knowledge) and liberation.

Moral Lessons: The story highlights several moral lessons:

• Jealousy: Moolä's jealousy led to her cruel actions and bad karma, illustrating the destructive nature of envy.
• Compassion: The old servant's selfless act of revealing the truth, despite the risk, exemplifies compassion and good karma. Dhanävah's paternal love and willingness to help an orphan also demonstrate compassion.
• Selflessness: Chandanbala's offering of food to Lord Mahavir in her dire circumstances showcases profound selflessness and devotion, leading her to spiritual liberation. The story emphasizes that following Jain principles ultimately leads to the path of liberation.