From the Land of the Rajas:

Creativity in Rajasthan

Like Buddhism, Jainism started as a reform movement of Hinduism in the 6th century BC.  Its founder, the revered saint and ascetic Vardhamma (ca. 599–527), stressed non-violence and the sacredness of life.  Like bodhisattvas in Buddhism, the twenty-four saints or religious preachers (jinas), who have freed themselves from the cycle of birth and rebirth, help their worshippers lead a more enlightened life.

Jain shrines are places of meditation.  Instead of worshipping gods, Jains venerate images of the teachers who have attained enlightenment and final liberation.  As in Hinduism, figures are found in both temples and domestic shrines.  During daily and festival worship, the jina figures are treated with fragrance (sandalwood) and incense, flowers, rice-grains, lamps, food offerings, fruit, and water.

(L) Jain temple, exterior
Photo by Shalini Ayyagari, Jaisalmer, 2005–06

(R) Jain temple, interior
Photo by Shalini Ayyagari, Jaisalmer, 2005–06