One common misconception about Ajivika is that it is a religion. While Ajivika does have spiritual and philosophical beliefs, it is not considered a religion. It is often classified as a heterodox school of Indian philosophy, meaning it is not aligned with the traditional Hindu schools of thought.

Another misconception is that Ajivika promotes fatalism and a lack of personal responsibility. While Ajivika does emphasize the concept of fate, it also believes in the importance of individual effort and action. Ajivikas believe that one's fate is predetermined, but it is up to the individual to fulfill their role in the cosmic order.

There is also a misconception that Ajivika is a monolithic philosophy with a single set of beliefs and practices. In reality, there were many different sects of Ajivika, each with their own interpretations and practices. This diversity within Ajivika is often overlooked or oversimplified.

Some may also mistakenly believe that Ajivika is a pessimistic philosophy, focused solely on the inevitability of suffering. While suffering is acknowledged as a part of life, Ajivikas also believe in the potential for liberation and enlightenment through following the path of dharma (righteousness).

It is also a common misconception that Ajivikas were ascetics who renounced all worldly possessions and pleasures. While some sects did practice asceticism, others did not. Ajivikas believed in living a balanced life, fulfilling one's duties and responsibilities while also pursuing spiritual growth.

Lastly, there is a misconception that Ajivika is a forgotten or extinct philosophy. While it is true that Ajivikas are no longer a prominent group in India, there are still followers of this philosophy today. Ajivikas have also had a significant influence on other Indian philosophies, such as Buddhism and Jainism.

In conclusion, there are several misconceptions about Ajivika, including its classification as a religion, its promotion of fatalism, its monolithic nature, its pessimism, its asceticism, and its extinction. It is important to understand the nuances and diversity within Ajivika in order to gain a more accurate understanding of this ancient philosophy.