- Philosophical ideas were derived from the Upanishads.
- Came to public as a revolt against orthodox Brahmanical Hinduism.
- Limited spread of Aryan culture in Eastern India helped in shaping better influence.
- Both indebted to the Sankhya philosophy.
- Preached in local languages.
- Believed in Idol worship: it was not initially believed in but it was later adopted during a subsequent period.
- Both believed that the world is full of misery.
- Rejected the authority of the Vedas and the efficacy of Vedic rites.
- Non-violence as means of salvation.
- Opposed the caste system.
- Both got support from the strongest rulers of the time.
