Azimganj Jiaganj: The then no fishing zone

Azimganj and Jiaganj were main Jain districts during 19th century and first half of twentieth century. Jain community of Azimganj and Jiaganj (Baluchar) was not only powerful but also very religious minded. Large numbers of huge Jain temples speak the story itself.

It is not required to mention that this religious community was totally vegetarian while following Jainism. More over, fishing was banned in the River Bhagirathi (Ganga) in the area of Jain district.

There was a famous story about fishing in this zone. There was a non-Jain Rai Bahadur in Jiaganj. He took as a challenge to catch a fish in this zone. He arranged to catch fish and caught some. Maharaj Bahadur Singh Dugar took it seriously and lodged a case against him. He fought the case  in several courts and finally won. He obtained an order from Privy Council (London) against fishing in this zone. Privy council was the apex court in British India.

It is told that he spent Rs. 6.25 lakh to win this case! Just imagine the value of money at that time! He did not care for money and spent it for his non violent religion, Jainism and vegetarianism.

Vegetarianism: The healthy way of life

With regards,
Jyoti Kothari


(N.B. Jyoti Kothari is proprietor of Vardhaman Gems, Jaipur, representing Centuries Old Tradition of Excellence in Gems and Jewelry. He is a Non-resident Azimganjite.)