Gautam Swami (also called Gautama Swami) is regarded in Jainism as Mahavira’s chief or principal disciple. He is traditionally identified as the first Ganadhar, the primary disciple who organized and transmitted Mahavira’s teachings to future generations. Because Jain traditions (Digambar and Shwetambar) differ on some details, the exact descriptions of his role can vary between sects, but the core idea is that Gautam Swami was the senior disciple who helped preserve Mahavira’s sermons.