What is terapanthy and other types of jainism followers?

Here is a simple, authentic overview in Jain Dharma terms.

• Terapanthi (Terapanth): A reform-minded branch within Śvetāmbara Jainism. It started in the 18th century under Muni Bhikhanji (Ācārya Bhikṣu) and later grew under centralized leadership (one acharya at a time). Terapanthi emphasizes strict discipline, non-idolatry in many practices, and organized monastic life. In Śvetāmbara contexts, Terapanthi is one of the main sub-traditions alongside Sthanakvāsī and Murtipujaka. There is also a Digambara Terapantha among Digambaras, a separate lineage with its own rules. ( jainpedia.org)

• Other major Śvetāmbara sub-sects:

- Murtipujaka (Deravasi): Worshippers of Tirthankara image-deities in temples. - Sthānakvāsī: Do not worship images; emphasize meditation, scriptural study, and simple worship halls (sthānakas). - Terapanthi: As above, a disciplined, non-idolatrous reform group with a single spiritual leader at a time. ( jainknowledge.com)

• Sub-sects within Digambara (the other main sect):

- Bisapanthi: Traditionalism with some ritual emphasis (flowers, lamps, offerings) in worship. - Terapantha (Digambara Terapantha): A reformist Digambara group advocating minimal ritual and strong scriptural focus. - Taranapanthi, Gumanapanthi: Other smaller lines with their own ritual and doctrinal nuances. - Note: Digambaras generally differ from Śvetāmbaras in monastic rules, scriptures, and attitudes toward women and idol worship. ( jainknowledge.com)

• A quick geography-and-practice note:

- Śvetāmbara Terapanthi is distinct from Digambara Terapantha, each within its own tradition, and both share core Jain principles (ahimsa, anuvratas for lay followers, mahavratas for monks) but differ in monastic organization and worship practices. ( jainpedia.org)

If you’d like, I can give a short, side-by-side comparison of what each sub-sect typically does in daily practice and temple life. You can read more here ( jainknowledge.com)