રાજા તુંગભદ્ર: શ્રી ઘંટાકર્ણ મહાવીરની કથા

In a former life Ghantakarna Mahavir was a brave king named Tungabhadra, also called Mahabal, who ruled at Shrinagar. He was known for protecting the weak, and above all the pilgrims going to the sacred mountains. He gave his own life in battle against thieves who threatened these pilgrims, and for his courage and compassion he took his place among the 52 virs, the protector devs of Jainism.

Reborn as Ghantakarna Mahavir, he is shown with bell-shaped ears (ghanta-karna), as a mighty guardian armed with weapons. The bells are believed to ward off harm and to signal his protecting presence. His role is to shield devotees from obstacles, illness and danger, and to guard the path of dharma for those who keep Jain vows.