Why is the 6th century BCE …

The 6th century BC is considered most important in the history of India on account of the following reasons:

(i) The Vedic tradition lost its grip in the 6th century BC. There was an importance of meditation because of the increasing significance of Upanishads. The people were curious to find new ways of seeking nirvana or salvation or self-realisation. Consequently many new philosophical ideas emerged in the society.

(ii) Because of the emergence of new philosophical ideas, many new religious communities took birth. They were about 62 in number. Out of these, Jainism and Buddhism influenced the people the most. As a result, there was a change in the nature of the Indian society.

(iii) Jainism and Buddhism emphasised meditation and self-control. Their views were synonym to the views expressed in the Upanishads. So the philosophy of the Upanishads had become quite popular.