Introduction:
The Jain Tirthankara Mahavira has indeed been mentioned in the early Buddhist literature. This is significant because the historical relationship between Jainism and Buddhism is complex and multifaceted. While there were certainly points of contention and disagreement between the two religions, there were also areas of overlap and shared influence. The mention of Mahavira in early Buddhist texts provides evidence of this historical connection.

Explanation:
The mention of Mahavira in early Buddhist literature can be understood in the following ways:

1. Historical Context: Both Jainism and Buddhism originated in ancient India during the 6th century BCE. Mahavira, the 24th and last Tirthankara of Jainism, was a contemporary of Gautama Buddha, the founder of Buddhism. Given their close proximity in time and geographical location, it is not surprising that they would be mentioned in each other's religious texts.

2. Shared Teachings: Jainism and Buddhism share certain similar teachings and practices, such as the emphasis on non-violence (ahimsa) and the pursuit of liberation from the cycle of birth and death (moksha/nirvana). These shared principles could have led to the inclusion of Mahavira in early Buddhist texts as a point of reference or comparison.

3. Interactions and Debates: There were instances of interactions and debates between Jain and Buddhist monks during ancient times. These exchanges could have influenced the inclusion of Mahavira in early Buddhist literature. Buddhists might have mentioned Mahavira to critique or engage with Jain teachings, or to highlight differences between the two traditions.

4. Historical Records: Early Buddhist texts, such as the Pali Canon, contain historical records of the religious and philosophical landscape of ancient India. As Mahavira was a prominent figure in Jainism, it is natural for him to be mentioned in these texts as a significant religious leader of the time.

5. Transmission of Ideas: The religious and philosophical ideas of Jainism and Buddhism were not confined to their respective communities. There was a free exchange of ideas and beliefs between different religious groups in ancient India. The mention of Mahavira in early Buddhist literature could be a result of this cross-pollination of ideas.

In conclusion, the mention of Jain Tirthankara Mahavira in early Buddhist literature indicates the historical connection and interaction between Jainism and Buddhism. This serves as evidence of the complex and multifaceted relationship between the two religions, where there were both areas of shared influence and points of contention.