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During the Solanki era in Gujarat, a prominent figure named Shantu gained immense fame for his bravery, patriotism, and religious devotion. Initially serving as the leader of a cavalry unit under King Bhimdev, Shantu eventually rose to the positions of chief minister and chief whip. In the year 1094, King Siddharaj ascended the throne of Patan, facing internal and external threats to his rule. Shantu, known for his religious inclinations, took charge of the army and successfully suppressed the rebellion.
Deeply committed to his faith, Shantu undertook the construction of temples in Patan, Tharad, and other locations, installing idols in various shrines. Additionally, he oversaw the construction of two grand Jain temples in the villages of Vanka and Nihana, facilitating the movement of devotees between the two villages to worship in different sanctuaries.
During a pilgrimage to Shatrunjaya Tirtha, Shantu encountered a man engaged in intense penance. Not recognizing him, Shantu humbly bowed and inquired about his guru's identity. Surprisingly, the man revealed that his guru was none other than Shantu himself. Perplexed, Shantu requested an explanation, and the ascetic recounted an incident when Shantu, mounted on an elephant, witnessed a yati (ascetic) with a prostitute. Despite the yati's immoral actions, Shantu showed great respect and reverence. This encounter led the yati to realize his folly and renounce worldly desires, eventually becoming an ascetic himself. Shantu's faith in religion was strengthened by this incident.
Further displaying his devotion, Shantu spent a substantial amount of money constructing a magnificent residence and invited revered Acharyas to visit it. However, when the Acharyas remained silent while climbing each floor, Shantu was puzzled. Acharya Shri Manekchandrasuriji explained that praising the opulent residence would be inappropriate, as it symbolized Shantu's wealth rather than spiritual pursuits. Immediately, Shantu declared that the residence would be transformed into an upashraya (a place for spiritual practices).
At one point, King Siddharaj unjustly became angry with Shantu, prompting him to leave Gujarat and settle in Malwa, Rajasthan. The king, suspicious of Shantu's activities, employed spies to monitor him, while the king of Malwa attempted to tempt Shantu into joining his side. However, Shantu remained steadfast in his loyalty. He declared his allegiance to Jainism, with Acharya Devsuriji as his guru and King Siddharaj as his master, emphasizing his unwavering love for Gujarat, his motherland. Shantu adamantly refused to betray his homeland, asserting that he would rather die than be a traitor.
Upon learning of Shantu's deep attachment to Gujarat and feeling ashamed for his role in Shantu's departure, King Siddharaj realized his mistake. He sent word for Shantu to return, and out of respect for his master's wishes, Shantu came back to Gujarat, receiving a hero's welcome.
