The state in India which has the highest concentration of Buddhists an...
The largest concentration of Buddhism is in Maharashtra (58.3%), where (73.4%) of the total Buddhists in India reside. The percentage of Jain population to the total population is maximum in Maharashtra (1.3%), Rajasthan (1.2%), Delhi (1.1%) and Gujarat (1.0%).
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The state in India which has the highest concentration of Buddhists an...
Maharashtra is the state in India which has the highest concentration of Buddhists and Jains. Maharashtra is a diverse state with a rich cultural heritage and is home to various religious communities. Let's explore the reasons why Maharashtra has a significant population of Buddhists and Jains.
Buddhists in Maharashtra:
1. Historical Significance: Maharashtra has a deep-rooted connection with Buddhism as it was the birthplace of the great Indian emperor Ashoka. Ashoka played a vital role in the spread of Buddhism throughout India and beyond. Many ancient Buddhist caves and monuments, such as the famous Ajanta and Ellora caves, are located in Maharashtra.
2. Significant Buddhist Sites: Maharashtra is home to several important Buddhist pilgrimage sites. The city of Nashik is famous for the Trirashmi Buddhist Caves and the Pandavleni Caves, which are ancient rock-cut caves that served as Buddhist monastic complexes. Other important Buddhist sites in Maharashtra include Kanheri Caves, Karla Caves, and Bhaja Caves.
3. Influence of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar: Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, the architect of the Indian Constitution and a social reformer, played a crucial role in the revival of Buddhism in India. He converted to Buddhism along with a large number of his followers in Nagpur, Maharashtra, in 1956. This event, known as the "Dhamma Chakra Pravartan," led to a significant increase in the number of Buddhists in Maharashtra.
Jains in Maharashtra:
1. Historical Presence: Jainism has a long history in Maharashtra, dating back to ancient times. The state is home to several Jain pilgrimage sites and temples. Shirdi, the birthplace of the revered saint Shirdi Sai Baba, attracts a large number of Jain pilgrims as well.
2. Palitana Connection: Maharashtra has a close connection to the famous Jain pilgrimage site of Palitana in Gujarat. Many influential Jain families from Maharashtra have ancestral roots in Palitana and actively participate in religious activities there. This connection has contributed to the presence of a significant Jain population in Maharashtra.
3. Jain Temples and Centers: Maharashtra is dotted with numerous Jain temples and centers that attract devotees and followers from within the state and beyond. Mumbai, the capital city of Maharashtra, has several prominent Jain temples, including the Babu Amichand Panalal Adishwarji Jain Temple and the Jain Derasar in Walkeshwar.
In conclusion, Maharashtra has a high concentration of Buddhists and Jains due to its historical significance, the presence of important Buddhist sites, the influence of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, and the strong Jain community with ancestral connections to Palitana.
The state in India which has the highest concentration of Buddhists an...
The largest concentration of Buddhism is in Maharashtra (58.3%)