UPSC Prelims 2018·GS1·art-and-culture·religion and literature

With reference to the religious practices in India, the "Sthanakvasi" sect belongs to

Dalvoy logo
Reviewed by Dalvoy
UPSC Civil Services preparation
Last updated 23 May 2026, 3:31 pm IST
  1. ABuddhism
  2. BJainismCorrect
  3. CVaishnavism
  4. DShaivism

Explanation

The "Sthanakvasi" sect is a significant sub-sect within **Jainism**. They belong to the Svetambara (white-clad) tradition of Jainism. Key characteristics of the Sthanakvasi sect include: **Rejection of idol worship**: Unlike other Jain sects, Sthanakvasis do not believe in idol worship and instead practice meditation and prayer in special halls called Sthanaks (hence their name, meaning 'dwellers in halls'). **Emphasis on asceticism**: They adhere strictly to the ascetic principles of Jainism. **Origin**: The sect emerged in the 17th century from the Lonkāgaccha, a reformist movement within the Svetambara tradition. Therefore, the Sthanakvasi sect is an integral part of Jain religious practices.
art-and-culture: With reference to the religious practices in India, the "Sthanakvasi" sect belongs to

Related questions

More UPSC Prelims practice from the same subject and topic.