Mahavir Jayanti is an important festival for all Jains as it recognizes the birth anniversary of Lord Mahavir, the 24th and concluding Tirthankara. Jains from around the world as well as in India celebrate the day by commemorating his preachings of non-violence, truth, and righteousness, with reverence and devotion. The principles of Lord Mahavir teach compassion, simplicity, and self-restraint, encouraging millions to follow an ethical life. The festival is not only a religious ceremony but a call to adhere to his path of harmony and peace. His followers celebrate the day through prayers, donation, and spiritual lectures, creating a consciousness of his eternal wisdom for a peaceful and equitable society.
Lord Mahavir, or Vardhaman, was born in 599 BCE (or 540 BCE, as given by some) in Kundagrama, which is close to Vaishali in modern Bihar, India. He was born into a royal lineage as the son of King Siddhartha and Queen Trishala. Though born into luxuriousness, Mahavir inclined towards spiritual ways from a very young age. At the age of 30, he abandoned his kingdom, wealth, and worldly possessions to pursue enlightenment. For the subsequent twelve years, he engaged in rigorous meditation, self-control, and penance. After suffering for years, he achieved Kevala Jnana (paramount knowledge) and became a Tirthankara, leading people towards liberation. He preached the teachings of Jainism, focusing on non-violence (Ahimsa), truthfulness (Satya), and self-control, for the remainder of his life.
Mahavir Jayanti is an important day for Jains since it commemorates the birth of their last Tirthankara. The preaching of Lord Mahavir still guides millions of people to lead a peaceful and ethical life. His teachings of love, simplicity, and respect towards all living creatures are of high significance even now. This festival is not merely ritualistic but also about disseminating information on his preachings. Mahavir Jayanti is celebrated on the 13th of the Hindu month of Chaitra, which typically falls in March or April in the Gregorian calendar. The date changes each year based on the Hindu lunar calendar. In 2025, Mahavir Jayanti will be celebrated on 10 April.
Mahavir Jayanti celebration consists of a number of religious and social functions. Jains go to temples early in the morning to pay homage to Lord Mahavir through prayers. Mahavir's idol is given ceremonial bath, i.e., Abhisheka, and worshiped and conducted rituals. Several locations arrange huge processions in which an idol of Lord Mahavir is taken out on a chariot by devotees, who sing bhajans and hymns. Processions convey messages of peace and non-violence. On this day, Jain scholars and monks present lectures on Lord Mahavir's life and teachings. His ideals of Ahimsa (non-violence), Satya (truth), Asteya (non-stealing), Brahmacharya (celibacy), and Aparigraha (non-possessiveness) are taught.
Mahavir Jayanti is also commemorated with acts of charity and kindness. Jains distribute clothes, food, and essentials to the poor. Many also set free animals and birds in a gesture of compassion. Jains follow strict vegetarianism and also encourage the aspect of not hurting any living creature. On Mahavir Jayanti, many people become vegetarians and do not hurt animals.
Lord Mahavir's doctrine is based on five broad principles, which constitute the foundation of Jainism. Ahimsa (Non-violence) is the principle of not injuring any living organism either in mind, speech, or action. It is the foremost doctrine of Jainism. Satya (Truth) instructs one to always tell the truth and not tell lies or lead people astray. Asteya (Non-stealing) means one must not steal anything that is not one's own. Brahmacharya (Celibacy or Chastity) is all about a disciplined and chaste life through managing desires. Aparigraha (Non-possessiveness) instructs humans to be free of greed and material possessions in order to gain spiritual growth.
Lord Mahavir's teachings are ageless and have great relevance even in the contemporary era. During an era dominated by violence, materialism, and dishonesty, his teachings can lead society to a more moral and peaceful lifestyle. His teachings promote a simple way of life, harmony with nature, and compassion towards all living beings. Ahimsa or non-violence is especially topical today, as it fosters peace and tolerance in a conflict-ridden world. His concept of Aparigraha teaches us to minimize materialism and adopt an eco-friendly way of life, which is very important for nature conservation. Applying truth and honesty in everyday life can make society more equitable and transparent.
Mahavir Jayanti is being observed all over India with greater functions in those states where the presence of Jain people is well-established, namely Rajasthan, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, and Bihar. Few well-known Jain temples for which great crowd assemble during this celebration include Palitana Temples at Gujarat, the Shikharji Temple of Jharkhand, Dilwara Temples at Rajasthan, Shri Mahavirji Temple at Rajasthan, and Shravanabelagola at Karnataka.
Jain communities abroad, particularly in the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia, also observe Mahavir Jayanti with much fervor. Jain temples and cultural centers conduct prayer meetings, lectures, and charity activities to commemorate Lord Mahavir's teachings.
Mahavir Jayanti is a day of religious importance, which reminds us of the principles of non-violence, truth, and simplicity. Lord Mahavir's teachings continue to motivate millions to live a peaceful and compassionate life. In the fast-paced and chaotic world of today, adopting his principles can result in a more harmonious and ethical lifestyle. Whether or not one practices Jainism, the teachings of Lord Mahavir are of universal appeal and can be helpful to humanity in general. Celebrating Mahavir Jayanti is not merely ritualistic but also taking his lessons in our everyday life to build a better world for everyone.

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