The Rise and Fall of Jainism in Tamil Nadu - An Exploration (The Sangam age to Medieval period)

Abstract

The Indian subcontinent is a vast landmass that encompasses numerous languages, ethnicities, cultures, civilizations, and religions. Among these, religion is the last to have emerged, but it has become the most important aspect of human life. Religion has been divided into various sects, and today, there are over 4000 religions worldwide. In the Indian subcontinent alone, there are more than 20 religions. In India, major religions like Hinduism, Christianity, Islam, Sikhism, Buddhism, and Jainism thrive. However, only a few religions have originated and flourished in India. These include Vedic religion, Saivism, Vaishnavism, Shaktism, Kaumaram, Ganapathyam, Sauram (all of which are now part of Hinduism), Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism. In the 17th century the British colonial powers grouped various sects under the umbrella term "Hindu," resulting in the loss of individual identities for sects like Saivism and Vaishnavism. Although Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism originated in India, each has its unique characteristics.