Known as Jain Dharma are a small but influential religious minority with at least 4.2 million followers in modern India.

A Jain is a follower of Jinas (conquerors) and follow the teachings of 24 special Jinas who are known as Tirthankaras (ford-makers or those who have discovered and shown the way to salvation). The 24th and most recent Tirthankar is Shri Mahavira.

Jains do not believe in an omnipotent supreme being, creator or manager, but rather in an eternal universe governed by natural laws. Every living soul is potentially divine.

It is the only religion that requires monks and laity, from all its sects and traditions, to be vegetarian. The Jain is divided into two (2) major sects, Digambar and Svetambar.

Jainism has been a major cultural, philosopical, social and political force since the dawn of civilization in Asia, and its ancient influence has been noted in other religion, including Buddhism and Hinduism. This pervasiv influence of Jain culture in ancient Bihar possibly gave rise to Buddhism.

Jain scriptures were written over a long period of time, but the most cited is the Tattvartha Sutra or Book of Reality.

The holiest Jain symbol is a simple Swastika which signifies peace and well-being.

Jain Holidays are: Paryushan Parva (day fast and observe), Mahavir Jayanti (Mahavira's Birth date), Kshamavaani (day for asking everyone's forgiveness), Diwali (Nirvana day of Mahavira)