Evolution of Jaina Sangha
By J. C. Sikdar
Summary
J. C. Sikdar’s article “Evolution of Jaina Sangha (Part II)” continues his exploration of how Jain monastic orders evolved over time. He argues that the diversity of contemporary monastic units—ganas, gacchas, kulas and sakhas—reflects evolutionary relationships. Each sangha originated once and can be arranged hierarchically because intermediate forms have disappeared. The article analyses geographical evidence, noting that Jain sanghas are concentrated in distinct regions: Inner and South India, Western India, Eastern India, the Inner region (Madhya Pradesh), and the North‑Western area. Different sects and orders dominate these regions; for example, Digambaras prevail in the Deccan while Śvetāmbaras flourish in Gujarat and Rajasthan. Migration, climate and sociopolitical conditions shaped these distributions. Sikdar describes sub‑branches within major orders, such as the eleven branches of the Kharatara Gaccha and the numerous branches of Tapa Gaccha, and lists local sanghas tied to particular areas. He concludes that six major monastic realms emerged through centuries of missionary activity and that ongoing research is needed to fully trace the evolutionary history of Jain monasticism.
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Conclusion
Sikdar’s study demonstrates that the present configuration of Jain monastic orders is the result of a long evolutionary process shaped by historical migrations, environmental conditions and sectarian dynamics. By mapping sanghas to specific regions and tracing their sub‑branches, he shows that monastic geography reflects both adaptation and lineage. Understanding these evolutionary relationships not only clarifies why certain orders thrive in particular areas but also highlights the resilience and diversity of Jain monasticism. The article sets the stage for further research into how social and ecological factors influenced the formation and spread of Jain religious communities.