Question

Write a brief note on the spread of Jainism.

Answer 1

Instructions:

This answer to this question can be broken down into two parts.

• Write briefly about Jainism.
• Mention the regions where Jainism was adopted.

Solution: Mahavira founded the religion of Jainism. It believed in equality, brotherhood, and non-violence and denied the existence of God and the authority of Vedas. Jainism received royal patronage and spread to several regions in North India like Kosala, Magadha, Mithila, and Champa.

In Gujarat and other western parts of India, Jainism was patronised by the business community. In South India, Jainism was adopted by the Rashtrakutas and Chalukya kings. Jainism also became a dominant religion in Karnataka. Shravanabelagola became a pilgrimage centre in the 7th century CE. Jainism had already spread to Orissa and Rajasthan in the 1st century BCE.