Page 10 - Jain Jyotirdhar Chitra Darshan

[10] GENEROUS JAGADU SHAH
(Generosity)

(1) In Vikram Samvat 14th Century, Jagdu Shah, a gentlemen
of Kutch was told by a Jain monk that in future there would
be a severe drought, and the Jain monk told him to donate
food grains and make good use of his money. Jagadu Shah
had utmost faith in the monk and believed his words
completely. The imagination of the hungry faces of all
drought-stricken people appeared before his eyes. (2) Before
the drought, for many years, Jagadu Shah collected and
stored huge amount of grain in granaries all over Kutch and
Gujarat. When drought struck the region, he donated all the
grains to the needy. (3) At that time even Gujarat’s King
Vishaldev’s granaries had no grains. Therefore even the
King asked him for some grain. But he said that the grain
was meant for the poor and the needy. Hearing this the King
was shocked and appreciated Jagadu Shah’s generosity,
kindness and humility. (4) Later, ocean of Auchintya (One
who knows what is right under difference circumstances)
Jagadu Shah, gave grains to the King as he believed that
donation is the foundation of religion and even more,
donation of food makes your foe, your friend. Centuries have
passed but yet his name is amongst one of the most
generous men. Bravo Jagadu Shah!!