Spirituality
Mahavir Jayanti is festivals of Jainism
Mahavir Jayanti is festivals of Jainism
Mahavir Jayanti is one of the most important festivals of Jainism, celebrated on the 13th day of the waxing moon in the month of Chaitra of the Hindu calendar, which typically falls in March or April. In 2024, it will be observed on Sunday, April 21st.
The festival commemorates the birth of Lord Mahavira, the 24th and last Tirthankara (supreme preacher) of Jainism. Jainism is an ancient Indian religion that emphasizes non-violence, ahimsa, and spiritual liberation.
According to Jain texts, Mahavira was born as Vardhamana to King Siddhartha and Queen Trishala in Kundagrama (present-day Kundalpur, Bihar, India). He renounced his royal life at the age of 30 and embarked on a 12-year period of intense meditation and asceticism. After attaining enlightenment, he spent the next 30 years traveling throughout India, preaching the principles of Jainism.
Mahavir Jayanti is a day for Jains to reflect on the teachings of Mahavira and to recommit themselves to following his path. Jain temples are decorated and special religious ceremonies are held. Many Jains also observe a day of fasting on Mahavir Jayanti.
Here are some of the ways that Mahavir Jayanti is celebrated:
- Prayers and ceremonies: Jains attend special prayer services at Jain temples. These services may include chanting of hymns, recitation of scriptures, and offerings to Mahavira.
- Fasting: Many Jains observe a day of fasting on Mahavir Jayanti. This is a way to practice self-discipline and to show respect for Mahavira’s teachings of non-violence.
- Feasting: After the day of fasting, Jains often enjoy a feast with family and friends. This is a time to celebrate the life of Mahavira and to come together as a community.
- Charity: Jains often donate to charity on Mahavir Jayanti. This is a way to put Mahavira’s teachings of compassion and non-violence into practice.
Mahavir Jayanti is an important festival for Jains around the world. It is a day to celebrate the life and teachings of Lord Mahavira, and to recommit oneself to the Jain way of life.
Mahavir Jayanti FAQs
Who is Mahavir?
Lord Mahavir was the 24th and last Tirthankara (supreme preacher) of Jainism, an Indian religion emphasizing non-violence (ahimsa) and spiritual liberation.
When is Mahavir Jayanti celebrated?
Mahavir Jayanti falls on the 13th day of the waxing moon in the Chaitra month of the Hindu calendar, usually in March or April. In 2024, it’s on Sunday, April 21st.
Why is Mahavir Jayanti celebrated?
It commemorates Lord Mahavir’s birth and is a day to reflect on his teachings and recommit to the Jain way of life.
How is Mahavir Jayanti celebrated?
- Prayers and ceremonies: Jains attend special services at temples with chanting, hymns, and offerings.
- Fasting: Some Jains observe a day of fasting for self-discipline and honoring non-violence.
- Feasting: After fasting, families and friends gather for a celebratory meal.
- Charity: Donations are made to charities, reflecting Jain principles of compassion.
Do all Jains fast on Mahavir Jayanti?
There’s no strict rule. Some Jains fast completely, while others consume fruits and water.
Is Mahavir Jayanti a national holiday in India?
No, but it’s a gazetted holiday, with closures in schools and some businesses, especially in Bihar, where Mahavira was born.
