Why did Mahavira choose to preach in Ardhamagadhi?

To ensure his teachings were accessible to the common masses rather than just the learned Brahmins who used Sanskrit.

Ancient Indian Languages

UPSC Archival Analysis

The earliest Jain literature (the Agamas) was compiled in Ardhamagadhi, a regional dialect of Prakrit.

Exam Year

2006

Evidence Source

ID: HIS_ANC_2006_93 Ref: Standard Educational Reference