Mahavir Jayanti is the Jains’ most significant and auspicious event, commemorating the birth of Lord Mahavir. Devotees observe this religious holiday in loving remembrance of Jainism’s 24th Tirthankara, who served as the religion’s last spiritual head.
As per the Gregorian calendar, Mahavir Jayanti is commemorated in March or April and will be marked on 15 April this year. Members of the Jain community observe the day with charity actions, prayers, pujas, and vratas. Numerous devotees attend Mahavir temples to offer prayers, however this year owing to the coronavirus epidemic, this would not be possible.
Lord Mahavir was given the name Vardhaman, which means “one who expands,” in recognition of the kingdom’s growing wealth at the time of his birth. In the sixth century, he was born in Bihar to queen Trishala and king Siddhartha.
Lord Mahavir was born on the thirteenth day of the brilliant half of the moon in the Chaitra month, according to Jain traditions. As an adolescent, he had a keen interest in meditation. At the age of 30, he adopted a spiritual path and abdicated his reign to embrace Jainism.
The History And Significance
Mahavir is often regarded as the founder of Jainism. He was born on the 13th day of the brilliant half of the moon in the month of Chaitra in 599 BC in Kshatriyakund, Bihar. He was the Tirthankar’s 24th and last incarnation (teaching god who preaches dharma).
Mahavir was born to King Siddartha and Queen Trisala. His parents called him Vardhaman. He was born into a royal family, but he despised monarchy and the opulent lifestyle. He was always on the lookout for inner serenity and spirituality.
Vardhaman took an early interest in Jainism’s fundamental teachings and began meditating. He left the kingdom and his family at the age of 30 in order to discover spiritual truth. He lived an austere life, spending more than twelve years in severe penance and discipline before acquiring ‘Kevala Jnana’ or omniscience.
Lord Mahavira’s Principles
According to Mahavira, one should follow the following principles in order to live a good life:
- Nonviolence (Ahimsa) is the practice of inflicting no damage on living things.
- Sincerity (Satya) to tell the truth
- Non-stealing (Asteya) is refraining from possessing items that are not yours.
- Chastity (Brahmacharya) is abstaining from sensual pleasures.
- Non-attachment (Aparigraha) is the ability to remain detached from material possessions.
- His teachings form the bedrock of Jainism, commonly referred to as ‘Jain Agamas’.
FAQs About Mahavir Jayanti
Mahavir Jayanti is the Jains’ most significant and auspicious event, commemorating the birth of Lord Mahavir. Devotees observe this religious holiday in loving remembrance of Jainism’s 24th Tirthankara, who served as the religion’s last spiritual head.
For Jains, Mahavir Jayanti is the most auspicious day. The Jain community observes the day globally in honour of Jainism’s final spiritual teacher. It occurs in March or April according to the Gregorian calendar. It is also the thirteenth day of the Hindu month of Chaitra.
On Mahavir Jayanti, people arrange peaceful processions, or Rath Yatras, in which the idol of Lord Mahavir is carried on chariots, horses, and elephants, among other vehicles. On this day, people observe numerous traditions, one of which is washing Lord Mahavir’s idol in honey, water, and milk — a ceremonial bath called Abhisheka.
Mahavir Jayanti, one of the most auspicious holidays for the Jain community, commemorates the birth of Lord Mahavira, Jainism’s 24th Tirthankara. Mahavir Jayanti is observed on April 15 this year to promote peace and harmony and share Lord Mahavira’s teachings.
Conclusion
Now that you know everything about the Mahavir Jayanti, it’s time to get ready to celebrate this festival with a lot of pomp and love! For more blogs about popular Indian festivals, keep reading Seema!
