Jainism in the Uttara Pradesha
Summary
The article on Uttar Pradesha emphasises that Jainism’s history there predates other regions of India. Ayodhya, the birthplace of the first Tirthankara Ṛṣabhadeva, also saw the births of Ajitanatha, Abhinandana, Sumatinatha and Anantanatha. Lord Pārsvanātha was born at Varanasi to king Aśvasena of Kāśī, and his royal connections helped the faith prosper. With such patronage, Jainism flourished in Uttar Pradesha from the 8th century B.C. through the 10th–12th centuries A.D., although many prehistoric remains were later destroyed. The article surveys major sacred sites: Ayodhya’s riverside temples commemorate the births of several Tirthankaras. Sravasti (Sahet‑Mahet) in Gonda district, once capital of Kosala, was the birthplace of Sambhavanatha. Pabhosa caves near Kosam bear Sunga‑age inscriptions dedicated to kasyapa arhats. Varanasi, Simhapura (Sarnath), Candrapuri and Kampila each claim the births of other Tirthankaras, and Hastinapura was linked with Santinatha, Kunthunatha and Aranatha. The article notes that some of these cities have vanished or fallen into ruin; nevertheless, they testify to Uttar Pradesha’s central role in Jain history.
Summary reviewed by a volunteer editor.
Conclusion
Uttar Pradesha is the cradle of Jainism: many Tirthankaras were born there, and sites such as Ayodhya, Varanasi, Sravasti and Hastinapura still preserve their memory. Although later turmoil erased many remains, the surviving temples and excavated artefacts highlight the region’s pivotal role.