<Ul> <Li> </Li> <Li> </Li> <Li> </Li> </Ul> <P> Buddhism and Jainism are two ancient Indian religions that developed in Magadha (Bihar region) and continue to thrive in the modern times . Mahavira and Gautama Buddha are generally accepted as contemporaries (circa 5th century BCE). Jainism and Buddhism share many features, terminology and ethical principles, but emphasize them differently . Both are śramaṇa ascetic traditions that believe it is possible to attain liberation from the cycle of rebirths and deaths (samsara) through spiritual and ethical disciplines . They differ in some core doctrines such as those on asceticism, Middle Way versus Anekantavada, self versus no - self (jiva, atta, anatta). </P> <P> Jains believe that their religions is ancient and eternal with 24 Tirthankaras . Of the 24, the last two--Parshvanatha and Mahavira--are generally accepted as historical persons, with the 23rd Tirthankara pre-dating the Buddha and the Mahavira by probably some 250 years . Buddhists trace the Buddha to be the founder of their religion, but also believe that the Buddha had many previous rebirths as described in the Jataka Tales . </P> <P> Buddhist scriptures record that during Prince Siddhartha's ascetic life (before attaining enlightenment) he undertook many fasts, penances and austerities, the descriptions of which are elsewhere found only in the Jain tradition . In Majjhima Nikaya, Buddha shares his experience: </P>

Information about the founders of jainism and buddhism