Jainism in Central India: Cultural Networks and Regional Change from an Archaeological Perspective

Prashant Goyal* and Ravi Roshan

This paper looks at Jainism, an ancient Indian religion, in the region of Central India, and explains its development and spread through archaeological evidence. The study focuses on important historical sites such as Chanderi (Madhya Pradesh) and nearby places like Idor, Khandar, and Budhi Chanderi, which provide useful material for understanding the presence and growth of Jain communities in this region. In the past, Central India was an important area because it was located along major trade and travel routes. These routes allowed people, goods, and ideas to move across regions, helping religions like Jainism to expand and reach new areas. This research uses physical remains such as temple structures, sculptures, and inscriptions to understand these processes in a clear and practical way. It also highlights the role of Jain merchant communities and local supporters who contributed to building and maintaining religious sites over time. The paper further examines how Jain art and architecture changed in different places. Differences in styles, designs, and images show that Jain traditions interacted with local cultures and adapted to regional conditions. Overall, the study shows that Jainism was not only a system of religious belief but also an important part of the wider social and cultural life of Central India. By studying archaeological remains, it explains how cultural exchange, movement of people, and regional changes took place in the past.