Bihar : Mahavir Jayanti is one of the most significant festivals in Jainism, celebrated to mark the birth of Lord Mahavir, the 24th and last Tirthankara of Jain tradition. His life and teachings—centered around Ahimsa (non-violence), truth, and compassion—have left a lasting legacy that continues to inspire millions around the world.
The Life of Lord Mahavir
Born in 599 BCE in Kundagrama (present-day Bihar, India), Lord Mahavir was named Vardhamana by his royal parents. Even in his early years, he exhibited extraordinary courage and a deep sense of empathy. At the age of 30, he renounced his luxurious life to pursue spiritual enlightenment.
After 12 years of intense meditation and self-discipline, he achieved Kevala Jnana (omniscience). For the next 30 years, he traveled across India, spreading a message of peace, non-violence, and inner awakening.
The Message of Ahimsa and Its Relevance
Lord Mahavir’s core teaching—Ahimsa—is not just the absence of physical violence, but a way of life that promotes respect and compassion for every living being. He taught that true peace can only be achieved through non-violence in thought, word, and action.
This message was revolutionary at the time and remains deeply relevant in today’s world, where conflict and division often overshadow harmony and understanding.
Celebrating Mahavir Jayanti
Mahavir Jayanti is observed with spiritual fervor and joy. Jain temples are adorned with decorations, and processions featuring Lord Mahavir’s idol are carried out with chants and devotional songs. The idol is bathed in a sacred ritual called Abhisheka, and devotees engage in prayers, readings of sacred texts, and acts of charity.
The day encourages self-reflection, ethical living, and the practice of kindness—values that lie at the heart of Jain philosophy.
A Timeless Legacy
Lord Mahavir’s teachings are not confined to any one religion—they resonate with the universal values of peace, compassion, and moral integrity. Mahavir Jayanti is more than a religious festival; it is a reminder of the power of non-violence and the path to inner liberation through self-control and compassion.
[ Reported by Amit Deshmukh]
