In Jainism, Devānandā is a significant figure in the life story of Lord Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara.

Story of Devānandā:

Devānandā was the wife of R̥ṣabhadatta, a Brahmin of Kuṇḍagrāma. According to Jain tradition, Devānandā became the biological mother of Mahavira. During her pregnancy, she had auspicious dreams indicating the birth of a great soul. However, due to the workings of karma and the wishes of the celestial beings (Devas), the embryo was miraculously transferred from Devānandā’s womb to that of Triśalā, the queen of King Siddhartha, who belonged to the Kshatriya clan.

Thus, Triśalā became the mother who raised Mahavira, and Mahavira was born in the royal family of the Ikshvaku dynasty. This transfer is known as garbha parivartana (embryo transfer), and it is described in Jain scriptures such as the Kalpa Sūtra.

Later in Mahavira’s life, when he had become an ascetic, Devānandā came to see him. Upon seeing her, Mahavira paid his respects to her, recognizing her as his biological mother. Indrabhuti Gautama, Mahavira’s chief disciple, asked about this unusual gesture, and Mahavira explained the story of his birth and the significance of both mothers—Devānandā as the biological mother and Triśalā as the foster mother.

Moral and Significance:

• The story emphasizes the role of karma and the workings of fate in Jain philosophy.
• Both Devānandā and Triśalā are respected in Jain tradition, and Mahavira’s respect for both mothers highlights the Jain values of gratitude and right conduct.
• The garbha parivartana event also illustrates the Jain belief in the preordained nature of Tirthankara births and their connection to auspicious families.

This story is an important part of Jain hagiography and is recounted during Jain festivals, particularly during Paryushana and Mahavira Jayanti.