Encyclopedia of India–China Cultural Contacts v1.c7.s7.t8.13

v1.c7.s7.t8.13

Popular throughout the Indian history, Jainism was once a huge influence not just among the ruling elite, but also among the downtrodden and exploited lower-class people. Thwarted just like other indigenous religions in ancient India by the Islamic penetration of the South Asian subcontinent, Jainism’s influence gradually dwindled in the years that followed. However, as an independent religious sect, it managed to survive throughout the ages in India. Its doctrines continued to exert influence well into contemporary times in the country. Many prominent politicians and thinkers in contemporary India, including Mahatma Gandhi, had been profoundly exposed to the influence of Jain doctrines. Jainists also hold considerable economic and political sway in modern India.