Contribution of Mahavir to Indian Culture

Author(s): Kailashchandra Jain
Publisher: Z_Tirthankar_Mahavir_Smruti_Granth_012001.pdf

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masses who formed the different castes such as the Osavalas, the Khandelavalas and the Poravalas etc.
blissfulnes of the entire being, Mahavira inculcated the doctrine of ahimsa or nonviolence in thought, word and action. 1 The visible effect of this doctrine was sought to be proved by alpractical demonstration. Already in Mahavira's time and even afterwards, the righteous kings of India made it a point of duty to vouchsafe lawful protection to all forms of life within the sacred precincts of a religious establishment. 2 They even prohibited the slaughter of animals on certain sacred days of the year. This principle of causing no harm to any being had a salutary effect on man's habitual diet. Those, who came under the influence of Mahavira's personaltiy and teaching, gave up the eating of meat and fish, and adhered to a strictly vegetarian diet.
The next contribution of Mahavira is that he observed no distinction of caste and creed. According to him, salvation is the birthright of everyone, and it is assured if one follows the prescribed rules of conduct. His doctrine of Karma(action) made the individual conscious of his responsibility for all actions. One becomes a Brahmana or a Kshatriya or a Vaisya or Sudra by one's actions. Though he was Kshatriya, he himself was styled 'Mahana' or Mahamahana (Great Brahamana). His religion was accepted by a large number of men and women belonging to different castes and classes. The contemporary kings, queens, princes and ministers became his followers. Among the kings, Srenika, Kunika and Chetaka are the prominent. His chief eleven disciples known as Ganadbaras were also Brahmanas who helped the master to spread his faith. Besides, he attracted a large number of rich bankers and merchants. Mahavira also tried bis best to improve the general condition of these down-trodden people. Harikeshabala, born in the family of Chandalas, became a monk possessing some of the highest virtues. 4 Several contemporary clans such as the Lichchhav
After Mahavira's death, this vegetarian habit seems to have influenced the entire population The Brahmanas, Vaisyas and even Rajaputs became vegetarians because of the influence of Jainism. The principle was at the back of many philanthropic and humanitarian deeds performed, and institucions established from time to time. The practice of feeding and sustaining the insects, birds and animals followed in ancient times was the result of the doctrine of ahimsa. It is perhaps due to this principle that Jainism appealed to the
1. Uttaradhyayana Sutra. VIII, 10 2. Majjhimanikaya, II, p. 101. 3. Uvasagada-sao, 7. 4. Uttaradhyayana Sutra, XII
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