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INTRODUCTION, •India witnessed the growth of two great alternative, religions: Buddhism and Jainism. These religions, emphasised that true happiness does not lie in, material prosperity or performance of rituals, but in, non-violence, charity, frugality, and good, social conduct, •Various reasons are attributed to the origin and, popularity of these two important and potent, religious reform movements.

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CAUSES OF ORIGIN, • The Kshatriyas' reaction against domination of the, Brahmanas: The post Vedic society was clearly divided into, four varnas: Brahmanas, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas, and Shudras., Kshatriyas (who functioned as rulers and warriors) were ranked, second in the varna hierarchy. They reacted strongly against the, ritualistic domination of the Brahmanas and the various, privileges enjoyed by the priestly class (such as receiving gifts, and exemption from taxation and punishment)., • The Vedic philosophy had lost its original purity.

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• The Vedic religion had become very complex and, had degenerated into superstitions, dogmas and, rituals., •Patronising of Buddhism and Jainism by Vaishyas, and other mercantile groups who wanted better, social status and a reign of peace., •Ready acceptance of simple, ascetic, peace-, centred principles of Buddhism and Jainism by, general folk (Laity).