Manthaliputra Goshalak (also known as Makkhali Gosala or Gosala Maskariputra) was a contemporary of Lord Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara of Jainism. According to Jain texts, especially the "Kalpa Sūtra" and "Bhagavati Sūtra," Goshalak was initially a companion and disciple of Mahavira during his early years of spiritual quest. However, due to disagreements and differences in philosophies, Goshalak parted ways with Mahavira and established his own sect known as the Ājīvika sect.

The Jain scriptures describe several debates and philosophical differences between Mahavira and Goshalak, especially concerning the doctrines of karma, destiny, and free will. Goshalak is often depicted in Jain literature as advocating a doctrine of absolute determinism (niyativada), which contrasts with the Jain emphasis on individual effort (purushartha) and the law of karma.

Thus, in Jain tradition, Manthaliputra Goshalak is remembered as a significant contemporary and ideological opponent of Lord Mahavira.