More than a festival, Mahavir Jayanti is a heartfelt tribute to a life devoted to compassion, self-restraint, and truth.
Mahavir Jayanti, also called Mahavir Janma Kalyanak, is a significant festival celebrated by the Jain community that marks the birth of Lord Mahavira, the 24th and last Tirthankara of Jainism. Celebrated on the 13th day of the Chaitra month by the Hindu calendar, the date of Mahavir Jayanti varies each year. This year, it falls on March 31.
Bhagwan Mahavira was born in 599 BC in Kundagram, present-day Bihar, as the son of King Siddharta and Queen Trishala of the Ikshvaku dynasty. According to Jain religious scripts, Lord Mahavira's expecting mother had 14 dreams. When astrologers interpreted these dreams, they predicted that the child would become either an emperor or Tirthankar - a person who achieves spiritual enlightenment.
As he came of age, Lord Mahavira took over the kingdom and ruled it for over 30 years. However, after three decades of ruling, he felt an inner calling to renounce the luxuries of life and embark on a spiritual journey. He sought to attain enlightenment and understand the true nature of existence. This marked the beginning of his transformation into a spiritual leader and the founder of Jainism.
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The spirit of Mahavir Jayanti was powerfully invoked last year through the inauguration of Navkar Mahamantra Divas by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. (Photo courtesy: PIB India)
Lord Mahavira was a strong advocate for non-violence and compassion towards all living beings. His teachings emphasized the importance of loving and respecting every form of life, from the smallest microorganisms to the largest multi-celled creatures. These principles ultimately gave rise to Jainism, a religion that he founded.
After several years of rigorous penance and meditation, he achieved Kevala Jnana, which is considered the highest level of spiritual enlightenment in Jainism.
On Mahavir Jayanti, Jains across the world visit temples to offer prayers and seek blessings. The day is marked by elaborate processions, bhajans, and spiritual discourses, which are conducted to propagate the teachings of Lord Mahavira.
The festivities vary across communities, but common practices include carrying an idol of Lord Mahavira on a chariot, known as Rath Yatra, symbolizing the spread of his teachings. Devotees sing devotional songs, or Bhajans, in praise of Lord Mahavira's contributions to Jainism. The idol is then given a ceremonial bath (Abhisheka), signifying purification and renewal.
In addition to these rituals, devotees engage in charitable works, reflecting Lord Mahavira's emphasis on compassion and giving back to society. Priests and community leaders hold lectures to promote the principles of Jainism, focusing on the path of virtue and self-discipline.
The festival is considered an occasion to remember the teachings of Lord Mahavira and to reflect on his philosophy of leading a simple and austere life, free from materialistic possessions and attachments.
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5 life lessons from Lord Mahavira• Non-violence (Ahimsa) | Respect all living beings and avoid causing harm through our actions, words, or thoughts. Every action has consequences and one should strive to minimize harm in their interactions with others. • Truth (Satya) | Being honest in our speech and intentions. Living truthfully not only builds trust but also fosters healthy relationships with others. • Non-attachment (Aparigraha) | Detach from material possessions and desires. This doesn't mean living a life of deprivation but rather appreciating what one has without clinging to it. It is a reminder that true happiness comes from within and not from external possessions or achievements. • Compassion and empathy (Karuna) | Understanding others' pain, offering help, and acting with kindness. Practicing karuna not only benefits those around us but also fosters a sense of fulfillment, gratitude, and emotional intelligence, making one a better human being. • Self-discipline (Tapas) | Controlling desires, managing emotions, and maintaining focus helps one to lead a purposeful life. Self-discipline enhances productivity, reduces unnecessary stress, and encourages mindfulness, guiding humans toward personal growth and inner peace. |
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