Newly inducted Jain monks attend a ceremony to mark their entry into ascetic lifestyle, on the outskirts of Ahmedabad in April 2018. Photos: AFP
Millionaire Indian businessman Bhawarlal Doshi, centre, bends over in his new attire as he takes blessings from senior monks during a ceremony in the western city of Ahmedabad where he became a Jain monk in May 2016.
Jain monks, pictured here on a promenade in the Indian city of Mumbai in 2003, always walk barefoot, spreading a message of peace and non-violence.
Those who choose to follow the faith to monkhood are expected to accept an austere existence in almost every aspect of life.
Newly ordained Jain monks, Monica Tated and Manju Tated take part in an induction ceremony in Hyderabad in May, 2010.
Monica and Manju underwent training for three years learning the ways of the Jain monks.
Jain monks ride an electric vehicle along a street in Ahmedabad.