Udayan Mantri And His Son Ambad And Bahad

Here is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Udayan Mantri and His Son Ambad and Bahad" by the JAINA Education Committee:

This text recounts the inspiring story of Udayan Mantri and his two sons, Ambad and Bahad, highlighting their significant contributions to the prosperity of Gujarat and the promotion of Jainism during the Solanki dynasty, particularly under King Kumarpal.

Udayan Mantri's Journey:

• Humble Beginnings: Udayan Mantri began his life as a simple, struggling merchant in a village in Rajasthan. Facing financial hardship, he and his wife, Suhädevi, decided to migrate to Gujarat in search of better economic opportunities.
• Settling in Karnavati: They moved to Karnavati (modern-day Ahmedabad), a rapidly developing city founded by King Siddharaj. Udayan, new to the city, sought guidance at the local Jain temple.
• Kindness of Shravika Lachchhi: There, he met Shravika Lachchhi, a compassionate Jain lady who provided them with shelter and support.
• Prosperity and Honesty: Udayan started a modest business, which prospered, especially after he discovered a hidden treasure while renovating the house he was given. True to his honest nature, he offered the treasure to Lachchhi, but she graciously allowed him to keep it.
• Becoming a Wealthy Merchant and Citizen: With his newfound wealth, Udayan expanded his business and became the wealthiest man in Karnavati. His contributions were recognized, and he was appointed the "first citizen" of the city.
• Governor of Khambhat: Udayan's proven capabilities led to his appointment as the governor of Khambhat, a crucial port city, in 1120 A.D.
• Key Contributions as Governor: During his tenure, Udayan:
  • Abolished the pilgrim tax of Bholad, following the suggestion of Queen Mother Minaldevi.
  • Facilitated the initiation of a young boy named Changdev, who later became the renowned Jain Acharya Shri Hemchandra.
• Loyalty to King Kumarpal: Udayan demonstrated unwavering loyalty to King Kumarpal. When Kumarpal was in hiding from King Siddharaj, Udayan, advised by Acharya Hemchandra, sheltered him in his basement. After Kumarpal ascended the throne, he retained Udayan as governor of Khambhat and later appointed him as his trusted advisor in the capital, Patan.
• Promoting Jainism: Grateful for the role religion played in his life, Udayan utilized his wealth and influence to promote Jainism. He constructed several Jain temples, including the Udayanvihär in Karnavati, Udävasahi in Dholka, and a temple in Khambhat.
• Pilgrimage and Vow: On a mission to subdue a bandit named Sumvar, Udayan passed through Palitana and undertook a pilgrimage to Shatrunjay hill. During his worship at a wooden temple there, he observed a mouse carrying a lit wick. Concerned about fire, he vowed to build a new temple on the hill.
• Fulfilling the Vow: Despite being mortally wounded during the expedition, Udayan made his sons promise to fulfill his vow. He died peacefully, confident that they would honor his commitment.

Udayan's Sons: Ambad and Bahad:

• Ambad:

  • Character: Ambad was a poet and a brave warrior.
  • Career: He served as chancellor to King Kumarpal.
  • Contributions: He constructed the western walkway on Shatrunjay hill (Gheti Ni Päg), expanded the Udävasahi temple in Dholka, and renovated the Shakunikävihär temple in Bharuch.
  • Loyalty and Sacrifice: Ambad was extremely loyal to King Kumarpal. When Kumarpal's successor, King Ajaypal, began to reverse Kumarpal's policies, Ambad resisted him. He was killed fighting against Ajaypal's troops.

• Bahad (Vahad):

  • Character: Bahad was a skilled politician and statesman.
  • Career: He served King Siddharaj and later became King Kumarpal's trusted right-hand man. He was entrusted with the renovation of the Somnath temple, which he executed successfully.
  • Fulfilling Father's Vow: To honor his father's pledge, Bahad undertook the construction of a magnificent temple on Shatrunjay hill. The temple was completed in 1155 A.D. but was damaged by strong winds. Bahad then arranged for its reconstruction to withstand such forces.
  • Anamédote of Bhim's Generosity: During the temple's construction, a poor ghee seller named Bhim wished to donate his only coin. Bahad, recognizing Bhim's selfless contribution as his entire wealth, placed his name at the top of the donors' list. This act demonstrated Bahad's unbiased leadership and deep understanding of true devotion.
  • Temple Completion: The grand temple was completed in 1157 A.D. at a significant cost and its opening ceremony was a grand affair, attended by Acharya Shri Hemchandra.

Conclusion:

The story highlights the inspiring life of Udayan Mantri, emphasizing his diligence, honesty, and devotion to Jainism. It also celebrates his virtuous sons, Ambad and Bahad, who were true gems of the Jain community. Bahad's magnanimity in honoring Bhim's humble yet complete offering further underscores the values of true generosity and understanding within the Jain tradition.