According to Jain scriptures, in one of his previous births, Lord Neminath (the 22nd Tirthankara) was born as Chitragati, a prince. During this life, he was in love with Princess Pritimati, and they shared mutual affection. However, Chitragati ultimately chose not to marry Pritimati.

The reason for this, as described in Jain narratives, is that Chitragati had developed strong feelings of detachment (vairagya) and a deep inclination towards the path of renunciation and spiritual liberation. He realized the impermanence of worldly relationships and the cycle of birth and death (samsara). His compassion for all living beings and his desire to progress on the spiritual path led him to renounce worldly pleasures, including marriage.

This story reflects a recurring theme in Jainism—great souls often choose the path of renunciation over worldly attachments in their journey toward moksha (liberation). Chitragati’s decision to not marry Pritimati is emblematic of this ideal, and it foreshadows his later birth as Lord Neminath, who is renowned for his supreme compassion and detachment.

References:

• "Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Charitra" by Acharya Hemachandra
• Jain Kalpasutra and commentaries on the previous births of Tirthankaras