Why do Jains regard Mahavira as the 24th Tirthankara?

In Jainism, a Tirthankara is a savior who has successfully crossed the stream of rebirths and established a path for others to follow. According to Jain belief, each cosmic age produces its own group of 24 Tirthankaras.1

Mahavira, originally named Vardhamana, is regarded as the 24th and final Tirthankara of the current age. He is recognized for systematizing earlier Jain doctrines, establishing the rules of religious life for the community, and advocating for the practice of nonviolence (ahimsa) and the five great vows of renunciation. By attaining kevala—the highest stage of omniscience—and guiding others toward liberation, he fulfilled the role of the final "ford-maker" in this cycle.21