Bahubali and Bharat — The Conquest of Ego

Rishabhanatha, the first Tirthankara, had many sons, the most prominent being Bharat and Bahubali. When Rishabhanatha renounced the world, Bharat set out to conquer all the lands to become the Chakravartin (universal monarch). All his brothers submitted, except the immensely powerful Bahubali.

To prevent massive bloodshed between their armies, the ministers suggested the brothers settle the dispute through three types of one-on-one duels: staring, water-fighting, and wrestling. Bahubali, being physically stronger, won all three.

In the final wrestling match, Bahubali lifted Bharat high in the air, ready to smash him to the ground. But in that split second, a profound realization hit him: "I am about to kill my own brother just for some dirt and pride!" Disgusted by his own ambition, he gently placed Bharat down.

Bahubali instantly renounced his kingdom, pulled out his hair, and stood in deep meditation (Kayotsarga) in the forest. He stood so still for a whole year that vines grew up his legs, and birds nested in his beard.

Despite his severe penance, he could not attain Keval Gyan (omniscience). Why? Because a tiny sliver of ego remained. He thought, "I am standing on Bharat's land." Bharat, realizing this, came to Bahubali, fell at his feet, and said, "Brother, this land belongs to no one. It is not mine."

Hearing this, Bahubali's final knot of ego dissolved. At that exact moment, he attained Keval Gyan and became a liberated soul.