Jainism in Tamilnad

In discussing Tamil Nadu, the article notes that Jainism probably entered the Tamil country via the neighbouring Karnataka or Andhra regions and may have reached as far as Sri Lanka by the 4th century B.C. Tradition credits Bhadrabahu’s disciple Visākhācārya with leading a band of monks to the Cola and Pāṇḍya kingdoms following their master’s death. Numerous rock‑cut beds and caverns in the Pudukkottai, Madura and Tirunelveli districts, dated by Brahmi inscriptions to the 3rd century B.C., attest to the early presence of Jaina ascetics. The article describes how Jain preachers gradually moved deeper south, leaving monuments and inscriptions in the North Arcot district and beyond. The Kānci (Conjeevaram) region became a major stronghold: Pallava rulers initially patronised Jainism, and Mahendravarman I was a devotee before embracing Shaivism. The shrine at Tirupparuttikkunram near Kānci still venerates Mahavira, while nearby villages preserve rock sculptures and temples dedicated to Jaina deities. Thus the article portrays Tamil Nadu as a region where Jainism flourished in antiquity, leaving a rich legacy of inscriptions, caverns and temples.

Summary reviewed by a volunteer editor.