A Rare Jaina-Image of Balarāma at Mt. Māṅgī-Tuṅgī

Main author: Flügel, Peter
Format: Journal Article           
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Summary: The article investigates an intriguing, tangible link that was created between the Balabhadra legend of the Śvetāmbara Jaina Universal History and the ancient Digambara Jaina pilgrimage site of Mt. Māṅgī-Tuṅgī in northern Mahārāṣṭṛa: a rare and possibly unique image of a naked Digambara Jaina monk, Balabhadra, turning his back to his devotees. The narrative basis of this image is explored and placed in the wider context of this religious site and Jaina sacred geography.