Answer

Here are some well-known warrior-kings and martial figures connected with Jain tradition and Jain history:

• Chandragupta Maurya – Founder of the Maurya Empire; traditionally associated with Jain Dharma in his later life under Acharya Bhadrabahu.
• Samprati Maharaj – Mauryan emperor and grandson of Ashoka; remembered in Jain tradition as a great patron of Jain Dharma.
• Kharavela – King of Kalinga; known as a powerful ruler and a major supporter of Jainism.
• Kumarpal – Chalukya/Solanki king of Gujarat; traditionally remembered as a devoted Jain ruler influenced by Acharya Hemachandra.
• Vanaraja Chavda – Early ruler of Gujarat; associated in Jain tradition with Jain influence and patronage.
• Vastupala and Tejapala – Jain ministers and patrons under the Vaghela rulers of Gujarat; though better known as statesmen and patrons than battlefield warriors.
• Bhamashah – Jain noble, minister, and supporter of Maharana Pratap; remembered for his courage, loyalty, and sacrifice.
• Jagdu Shah – A famous Jain merchant and public benefactor; not mainly a warrior, but remembered for leadership and service during difficult times.

Explanation

In Jain Dharma, the highest ideal is ahimsa — non-violence. So Jain tradition generally honors people more for:

• self-control,
• charity,
• protection of Dharma,
• truthfulness,
• renunciation,
• and compassion.

Some kings and leaders connected with Jainism were warriors or rulers by worldly role, but Jain tradition especially remembers them for their devotion, patronage of temples, support of monks and nuns, and service to society.

Takeaway

Famous Jain-associated warrior-rulers include Chandragupta Maurya, Kharavela, Samprati, and Kumarpal, but in Jain understanding, their spiritual greatness is remembered more through their support of Dharma than through warfare.