Answer

Mallikabai, more commonly known in Jain tradition as Śrī Mallinātha Bhagwan or Malli Bhagwan, is the 19th Tirthankar of the present Avasarpiṇī time cycle.

Explanation

In Jain Dharma, Mallinātha Bhagwan is revered as one of the 24 Tirthankars.

A notable difference exists between Jain traditions:

• Śvetāmbara tradition: Mallinātha Bhagwan is accepted as a female Tirthankar, often referred to as Malli Devi or Mallikā.
• Digambara tradition: Mallinātha Bhagwan is regarded as male, like the other Tirthankars.

Both traditions revere Mallinātha Bhagwan as a fully enlightened Tirthankar who attained Keval Jñān and showed the path of liberation.

Spiritual Understanding

Mallinātha Bhagwan’s life teaches detachment, purity, renunciation, and the greatness of the soul beyond bodily identity. In Jain Dharma, the soul’s true nature is pure consciousness, and liberation is achieved through right faith, right knowledge, and right conduct.

Takeaway

Mallikabai refers to Mallinātha Bhagwan, the 19th Tirthankar, deeply revered in Jain tradition. The Śvetāmbara and Digambara traditions differ regarding gender, but both honor Mallinātha Bhagwan as a liberated spiritual teacher.