Paper Details

Non-violence (Ahimsa) is one of India’s most enduring philosophical contributions to world civilization, with roots deeply embedded in ancient religious and cultural traditions. This paper examines the evolution of non-violence from ancient India to the modern world, analyzing its origins, development, and continuing relevance. The study traces the transformation of Vedic religion in the 6th century BCE, leading to the emergence of Jainism and Buddhism, both of which placed non-violence and compassion at the core of their ethical systems. Special emphasis is given to the teachings of Vardhamana Mahavira and Gautama Buddha, their rejection of animal sacrifice, social discrimination, and ritual violence, and the inclusive nature of Buddhist practice. The paper further explores the spread of Buddhism through royal patronage, particularly under emperors such as Ajatasatru, Ashoka, Kanishka, the Satavahanas, and Harshavardhana, highlighting the role of monasteries, stupas, councils, missionaries, and educational institutions like Nalanda and Vikramasila. The global transmission of non-violence through Buddhism to Asia and beyond is critically analyzed. In the modern period, the study connects ancient principles of Ahimsa to Mahatma Gandhi’s philosophy of Satyagraha, demonstrating its effectiveness in India’s freedom struggle and its influence on global leaders such as Martin Luther King Jr. and Nelson Mandela. The paper concludes by assessing the impact of non-violence in contemporary society, including social justice movements, conflict resolution, environmental activism, and international diplomacy. The research underscores non-violence as a timeless and universal principle essential for peace, justice, and sustainable human coexistence.

Non-violence, Buddhism, Jainism, religious.