Answer

Jainism is an independent Dharma with its own Tirthankars, scriptures, philosophy, ethics, and path of liberation. We do not need to include Hindu gods in Jain teachings just to explain Jain Dharma.

However, Jain scriptures and Jain tradition do mention figures such as Krishna, Rama, Lakshmana, Ravana, and others because they are part of Jain universal history, not because Jainism depends on Hinduism.

Explanation

In Jain Dharma:

• The supreme spiritual ideals are the Arihants, Siddhas, Acharyas, Upadhyays, and Sadhus.
• The path is based on Ahimsa, Anekantvad, Aparigraha, Karma theory, and Moksha.
• No creator god is required in Jain philosophy.

So Jainism does not need Hindu gods for its identity.

But when Jain texts mention Krishna, Rama, or other well-known figures, they are usually presented through a Jain framework. For example, Krishna is understood in Jain tradition as a powerful worldly person connected with Jain universal history, not as the supreme creator or final spiritual refuge.

This is different from “including them because Hinduism includes them.” Jain Dharma explains many beings, kings, devas, heroes, and historical-spiritual personalities according to Jain karma theory and cosmology.

Spiritual Understanding

The focus of Jain Dharma should remain on:

• Tirthankars
• Jinas
• Keval Gyan
• Ahimsa
• Samyak Darshan, Samyak Gyan, Samyak Charitra
• Liberation from karma

Including Krishna is not necessary in a basic explanation of Jainism. But if discussing Jain universal history, Jain Ramayan, Jain Mahabharat-related narratives, or Shalaka Purushas, then Krishna may be mentioned because Jain tradition has its own account of him.

Takeaway

You are right that Jainism should not be presented as dependent on Hinduism. Jain Dharma stands independently. But mentioning Krishna is acceptable only when explaining the Jain version of universal history, not as a requirement for Jain identity or worship.