Encyclopedia of India–China Cultural Contacts v1.c7.s2.t8.8

v1.c7.s2.t8.8

Shravasti is also famous as a Jain sacred place where it is also known as Kunalnagarí, Chandrikapuri and Manikpuri. It was associated with the 3rd Jain Tirthankar Sambhavanath as well as with the last Tirthankar, Lord Mahavira, who spent several *chaturmaas* in the city. Kosal King Prasenjit was a follower of the latter. According to Jaina texts, many of the *shresthis* (businessmen), as well as members of the royal family from the city embraced Jainism. This included famous businessman, Nagdutta, and son of King Jitshatru, Mrigdhwaj. The ancient Shobnath Temple and other Jaina monuments indicate strong Jain connection. During 10th and 11th centuries CE, the city was ruled by successive Jain kings like Mayurdhwaj, Hansdhwaj, Makardhwaj Sudhavadhwaj and Suhridhwaj.