Height of baldevs
In Jainism, Baldevas (also spelled Balabhadras) are important figures known as the elder half-brothers in the group of 63 illustrious persons (Shalaka Purushas). According to Jain texts, especially in the "Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Charitra" by Acharya Hemachandra, the height of Baldevas varies in each time cycle (Avasarpini and Utsarpini).
For the current Avasarpini (descending half-cycle), the Baldevas are described as being of "great height," but specific measurements are often given in ancient units such as dhanush (bows) or hast (cubits). According to the texts:
- The height of Baldevas in the current era is generally described as 60 dhanush (approximately 120 feet, as 1 dhanush is roughly 2 feet).
- In earlier eras, their height was even greater due to the belief in the gradual decrease in human stature over cosmic cycles.
For example, Baldeva Sri Balarama (the elder brother of Shri Krishna), is said in Jain texts to have been 60 dhanush tall.
Summary: According to Jain tradition, the height of Baldevas is about 60 dhanush (approximately 120 feet) in the current era, with variations in other eras.