Bahubali
Summary
This narrative recounts the fraternal contest between Bahubali and his elder brother Bharata, sons of the first Jain Tirthankara. Having conquered the world, Bharata demanded submission from his brothers to become universal monarch. Bahubali refused and they agreed to resolve the dispute through non‑lethal contests: staring, water‑sport and wrestling. Bahubali defeated Bharata but declined to kill him. Realising the futility of power, he renounced his kingdom and undertook an austere standing meditation. Creepers grew around him as he remained motionless, yet he failed to attain omniscience until he relinquished subtle pride. After his sisters Brahmi and Sundari sang a song pointing out that kevala‑knowledge cannot be obtained while riding an elephant (a metaphor for ego), Bahubali realised that pride obstructed his liberation. Upon renouncing it he achieved kevala‑knowledge. He is venerated as a symbol of self‑conquest and renunciation, commemorated by the colossal statue at Śravaṇa Beḷgoḷa.
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Conclusion
By highlighting Bahubali’s victory over ego rather than his physical triumphs, the article conveys the Jain ideal that self‑mastery eclipses worldly conquest. Bahubali’s renunciation, steadfast meditation and ultimate attainment of omniscience epitomise non‑violence and humility. His story inspires devotees to seek inner victory and to recognise that true sovereignty lies in conquering one’s own passions.