Jainism has always held a predominant position in Karnataka. The relation between Karnataka and Jainism has been as continious as it has been close. For centuries Jainism was Karnataka's state religion. in one of the inscriptions, a poet describes 'Karnataka Desa' as follows:
"The lovely land of Karnataka is resplendent with a variety of achievements: it is the abode of Jainism, it is the home of unfailing courtesy, it is the residence of Brahma, it is the realm of great renown, it is where we find the very springs of knowledge and wealth, it is the dwelling place of matchless splendours where goodness and serenity reign".

It is understood that in the 3rd century B.C. driven southwards by famine conditions in the north, the Mauryan Emperor Chandragupta along with his preceptor Bhadrabahu and twelve thousand other Jain sages, traveled to Karnataka and setteled down at Shravanabelagola performing austerities. There are even now at Shravanabelagola for anyone to see, the Basadi of Chandragupta and the cave of Bhadrabahu. It is quite likely that even prior to their arrival here, Jainism had a footing in Karnataka. However, the history of Jainism in Karnataka can be traced continuously since its advent. Jainism has flourished for over 2000 years in Karnataka as a vital and powerful force.

Jainism as a religion received patronage from the Kadambas, the Gangas, the Rashtrakutas the Chalukyas, the Hoysalas and other dynasties.It is only natural that in Karnataka, where Jainism as a religion received State and royal patronage, many temples and monuments have been dedicated to it.

Shravanabelagola