Explanation: The Jaina doctrine is much older than Buddhism and it is accepted that in each half cycle of time there are total 24 Tirthankaras.

• It is rather interesting to note that the Jaina conception of time is divided into endless sequence of progressive (utsarpinis) and regressive half cycles (avasarpinis) in terms of degree of happiness. These vast spans of time are further divided into 6 kalas (stages).
• The first founder Tirthankara Rishabhadeva (symbol – bull), whose reference is also found in Rig Veda and Vayu Purana, belongs to our current half cycle of avasarpini (i.e., a period of regressive happiness).
• The history of all the Tirthankaras is not easy to establish. Neminatha belonging to Saurashtra (Gujarat) is believed to be the 22nd Tirthankara, and the 23rd Tirthankara is believed to be Parshvanatha (of Benaras) having the emblem of the snake.
• The 24th Tirthankara was Mahavira, who had the emblem of the lion.

Source: Tamil Nadu NCERT