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King  Shrenik  was  not  a  Jain  and  inspite  of  this  Chellana
        agreed to marry him because of his courage and valour. What
        is the value of beauty without courage ?

        Great women maintained purity of character even in adverse
        times only because of their courage.

        Damayanti’s example :
        Damayanti had to leave the kingdom and roam in the forests
        with king Nal but she was fearless. Her husband told her, “I
        am facing tough days wherein I have to roam about shelterless
        in the forest. You are delicate and accompanying me like this
        is  not  your  cup  of  tea.  Hence,  it  is  better  to  go  and  stay  at
        your father’s house till my bad days are over.” Delicate but
        daring Damyanti flatly refused. She said, “The shadow always
        accompanies  the  tree.  Likewise  I  will  not  leave  your  side.
        Whatever be the situation I am happy with you.”

        This  is  all  an  impact  of  courage.  In  the  morning  when  Sita
        woke up she realized that her husband Nal had left her alone
        hoping  that  finding  herself  alone  she  would  seek  shelter  at
        her father’s house. Damayanti immediately decided to accept
        4 vows to protect her chastity till she met her husband.

        (1) She left all 6 Vigais.*
        (2) She decided not to sleep on bed.
        (3) She decided not to wear colourful clothes.
        (4) She left Shringar.*

        How did she manage to do this ? Only because of her courage.
        Eventually, she found a lonely cave near a nearby hermitage
        and  she  stayed  there  and  worshipped  Lord  Shantinath

        *  Vigai  –  Milk,  curd,  ghee,  sugar,  oil  and  fried  items  are  the  6 Vigais
          which are forbidden in Ayambil Tapa.
        *  Shringar  –  To  look  beautiful  by  dressing  yourself  and  wearing
          ornaments
        100                                                Purity Purified
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