Jainism is one of the ancient religions of India. One presumes that it already existed in similar form as of today in the 6th century B.C.  A Jain, as the followers of the religion call themselves, are those, who have obtained perfect knowledge and absolute freedom from the bondage of karma.
 

Though the Jainas (followers of the jain religion)  do not worship any transcendental God and are supposed to be atheistic, they have constructed magnificent temples and have evolved a complex set of rituals. Purifying the soul through meditation and asceticism, trying to put an end to all misery and attaining the highest liberation or nirvana is the aim of all human existence. This goal has been attained by the tirthankaras. To meditate on this Being and his qualities in order to advance on the path of purification of the soul and attainment of nirvana, Jainas visit temples where the images of such tirthankaras are installed. Jainas do not worship Gods to seek their grace for material prosperity. Their temples are administered by foundations consisting of members known for their patronizing religious activity.