Jain Miniature Paintings from Western India c7.18

c7.18

An important painted wooden cover in the collection of Mr. Sarabhai Nawab probably belongs to the middle of the 12th century. It measures about 30" in length and 2¾" in width. The subject-matter of the painting is a battle between two brothers, Bharata Chakravartī and his younger brother Bāhubali (Fig. 199—203). The story goes that once there was a war between Bharata and Bāhubali which lasted for twelve years. Such was the slaughter of the soldiers on both sides that Śakra advised both brothers to force a decision by a personal duel. Four forms of duel, namely, duel by stern glances (dṛṣṭiyuddha), duel by discussion (vāgyuddha), duel by boxing, and duel with stick (daṇḍayuddha), were suggested. In all these four forms of duel, the valiant Bāhubali was victorious. At this defeat Bharata lost the presence of his mind, and in great anger attacked Bāhubali with a discus, with, however, no result. Bāhubali, at this wanton attack, thought that fraternal love was of no consequence in that war, and rushed towards Bharata ready to strike him with his fist which would have surely killed him.