Answer

In Jain Dharma, anuvrata and mahavrata are connected to different levels of the gunasthanas, but they are not exactly the same thing as gunasthana.

• Anuvrata are the small vows followed by householders (श्रावक).
• Mahavrata are the great vows followed by monks and nuns (साधु-साध्वी).

Explanation

Relation with Gunasthana

1) Anuvrata

Anuvrata are generally associated with the 5th gunasthana: Desavirata Samyagdrishti.

At this stage:

• the soul has right faith,
• and one begins partial restraint,
• meaning one follows vows in a limited form as a householder.

So, anuvrata belong to the householder path.

2) Mahavrata

Mahavrata are generally associated with the ascetic path, beginning from the 6th gunasthana: Pramatta-samyata.

At this stage:

• a person takes diksha,
• renounces worldly life,
• and observes the five vows in full form.

So, mahavrata belong to monks and nuns.

Simple Comparison

• 4th gunasthana: right faith, but no vow-based restraint yet
• 5th gunasthana: anuvrata begins
• 6th gunasthana: mahavrata begins
• 7th gunasthana and above: purity becomes stronger, with deeper steadiness in restraint

Spiritual Understanding

The gunasthanas show the inner spiritual progress of the soul.

The vows show the outer discipline and ethical practice.

So:

• Anuvrata are for gradual purification in worldly life.
• Mahavrata are for complete renunciation and deeper spiritual purity.

In Jain Dharma, both are important:

• anuvrata prepare the soul,
• mahavrata take the soul toward higher liberation.

Takeaway

Anuvrata are linked mainly with the 5th gunasthana and household discipline. Mahavrata are linked mainly with the 6th gunasthana onward and full ascetic renunciation.

If you want, I can also give you a full table of all 14 gunasthanas with anuvrata and mahavrata.