Answer

According to Jain tradition, Indra did not cause Nilanjana’s death out of cruelty. He arranged the dance because Lord Rishabhdev’s time for renunciation had arrived, and Nilanjana’s life-span was already ending. When she died in the court, Indra immediately created an illusory Nilanjana so the performance could continue. ( jainqq.org)

Explanation

The purpose of this event was to awaken vairagya, or deep detachment, in Rishabhdev. Seeing Nilanjana vanish suddenly showed him that worldly beauty, pleasure, and status are temporary. This realization led him to renounce his kingdom and take diksha. ( jainqq.org)

Spiritual Understanding

In Jain Dharma, this story teaches the impermanence of samsar. Even the most beautiful and powerful worldly things can disappear in a moment, so the wise soul turns toward detachment, discipline, and liberation. ( jainqq.org)

Takeaway

So, Indra’s role was not to punish Nilanjana, but to help create the right spiritual moment for Rishabhdev’s renunciation. The incident became a powerful reminder of the transient nature of worldly life. ( jainqq.org)