Mahavir Jayanti is an auspicious festival celebrated by the Jain community to commemorate the birth anniversary of Lord Mahavir, the twenty-fourth and the last Tirthankara of Jainism. It is a day of great significance for the Jains and is celebrated with great enthusiasm and devotion.
Lord Mahavir was born in 599 BC in Kshatriyakund, Bihar, as Vardhaman Mahavir. He was born into a royal family and was the son of King Siddhartha and Queen Trishala. From a young age, he displayed a deep spiritual inclination and renounced his worldly possessions at the age of 30 to become an ascetic.
Lord Mahavir spent twelve years practicing intense meditation and self-discipline before attaining enlightenment and becoming a Tirthankara. He spent the rest of his life preaching the principles of Jainism, including non-violence, truthfulness, and compassion, and established a large following of devotees.
Mahavir Jayanti falls on the thirteenth day of the Chaitra month, according to the Hindu calendar, which usually falls in the month of March or April. On this day, Jains all over the world celebrate by offering prayers and performing puja at Jain temples. Many people also participate in processions and cultural events organized by Jain communities.
There are many Jain temples in India dedicated to Lord Mahavir. Some of the most popular ones include
Shri Mahavirji Temple, Rajasthan: This temple is located in the town of Mahavirji in Rajasthan and is dedicated to Lord Mahavir. It is one of the most important Jain pilgrimage sites in India.
Shri Digamber Jain Lal Mandir, Delhi: Located in the heart of Old Delhi, this temple is dedicated to Lord Mahavir and is the oldest Jain temple in the city.
Shri Mahavir Swami Temple, Gujarat: This temple is located in the town of Kumbhariya in Gujarat and is dedicated to Lord Mahavir. It is known for its beautiful architecture and is a popular pilgrimage site for Jains.
Shri Mahavirji Temple, Karnataka: This temple is located in the town of Moodabidri in Karnataka and is dedicated to Lord Mahavir. It is one of the most famous Jain temples in the state and is known for its beautiful carvings.
Shri Mahavirji Temple, Tamil Nadu: This temple is located in the town of Mel Sithamur in Tamil Nadu and is dedicated to Lord Mahavir. It is one of the most important Jain pilgrimage sites in the state.
During the festival, people offer sweet dishes and distribute prasad to everyone. Some people also engage in charitable activities and donate food and clothing to the poor and needy.
Mahavir Jayanti is a day of joy and celebration for the Jain community. It reminds us of the teachings of Lord Mahavir, which emphasize the importance of compassion, non-violence, and truthfulness. These principles are not only relevant to Jains but can also serve as a guide for people of all faiths in leading a virtuous and meaningful life.
Lord Mahavir's teachings have had a profound impact on Indian philosophy and culture. They promote the idea of treating all living beings with kindness and respect, and emphasize the importance of living a simple and selfless life. These teachings are particularly relevant today, as the world is facing numerous challenges, including climate change, social injustice, and violence.
Mahavir Jayanti is a day of joy and celebration for the Jain community. It reminds us of the teachings of Lord Mahavir, which emphasize the importance of compassion, non-violence, and truthfulness. These principles are not only relevant to Jains but can also serve as a guide for people of all faiths in leading a virtuous and meaningful life.