Born in 599 BCE in what is now Bihar, India, Mahavira is often regarded as the 24th Tirthankara, or spiritual teacher, within Jain tradition. His teachings built upon the principles laid out by previous Tirthankaras, advocating for the path of right knowledge, right faith, and right conduct.

Mahavira's life is characterised by a profound commitment to the practice of non-violence (ahimsa), which became a cornerstone of Jain philosophy. After achieving enlightenment at the age of 30, he spent the next 30 years wandering as an ascetic, sharing his insights and addressing the spiritual needs of those around him. His discourse often included the importance of self-discipline, the interconnectedness of all life, and the pursuit of liberation from the cycle of birth and death.

Mahavira's legacy endures in the core tenets of Jainism, influencing not only the practice of its adherents but also leaving a lasting impact on broader spiritual and philosophical discourses in India and beyond.