Jain Miniature Paintings from Western India c13.384

c13.384

It is related that once Vajrasvāmī, being aware of the impending famine which was to last for twelve years, told his disciple Vajrasena that the prosperous days would only return when they received alms of rice costing a lac. Vajrasena left the place, but Vajrasvāmī remained there. The monks unable to get grain satisfied their hunger by vidyāpiṇḍa (magical food) brought by Vajrasvāmī. But, after some time, disgusted at the lowly method of supporting their bodies, the monks along with Vajrasvāmī proceeded to Rathāvarta, and abstaining from food gave up their lives.