Jains are not Hindus, says Jain religious leader

Surat, Oct 12: Jain scholar and religious leader Sadhwi Anandsriji has said that Jains are not Hindus.

''Jains are not Hindus, Jainism is a different religious system based on a set of dharmic principles,'' Sadhwi Anandsriji said here today at a function organised by the community.

''The term Hindu is derived from the term 'Sapta Sindhu', used in our ancient scriptures. It was used to denote those who lived on the banks of Sindhu river. It is nothing like a unified religious system. On the other hand Jainism is a seperate religious system based on a number of principles. It is quite distinct from Hinduism,'' she added.

Recently Gujarat Assembly had passed a legislation in which Jains were described as Hindus.

UNI