Great Preachers: Mahavira and Buddha — Question 1

Two causes that led to the rise of Jainism and Buddhism were:

1. During the Later Vedic Age, complex rituals, superstitions and ceremonies began to dominate the practice of worship. Rituals became expensive and elaborate. Thus, common people felt burdened by such practices.
2. The caste system became rigid, and it created inequality in society. The lower castes were denied the right to practise religion.