What is the difference between a “founder” and a “builder”?

A “founder” (sansthapaka) is the one who begins a task or tradition, or who lays its foundation. A “builder” (nirmata) is the one who carries it forward, develops it, and gives it its mature form.

For example, if someone lays the foundation of a house, they are its founder. But the one who raises the walls and completes the entire structure is its builder.

This distinction matters, because — as we said — Hindu Dharma has no single founder. But it has had many great builders, and they deserve to be remembered. That is the next question.