Mahavir Jayanti – Celebrating the Birth of Mahavir

Mahavir Jayanti is an essential religious festival celebrated by the Jain community worldwide. It marks the birth of Lord Mahavir, the twenty-fourth and last Tirthankara (supreme preacher) of present Avasarpiṇī in Jainism.

Who is Lord Mahavir?

Lord Mahavir was born in 599 BC in Kundalagrama, Bihar, India, as Vardhamana Mahavira. He was the son of King Siddhartha and Queen Trishala. Before his birth, Queen Trishala had 16 dreams interpreted by astrologers, which signified the coming of a great soul. Lord Mahavir had sacrificed all worldly pleasures and chose an ascetic path when he was 30 years old. He spent twelve years in meditation and self-realization, after which he attained Kevala Jnana or perfect knowledge.

The Significance of Mahavir Jayanti

Mahavir Jayanti is celebrated every year in either March or April, depending on the Gregorian calendar. This year, it fell on April 4, 2023. It is a significant event for the Jain community as it marks the birth of their most prominent religious figure, Lord Mahavir. On this day, people engage in charitable acts, prayers, pujas, and fasts as a way to show their respect for Lord Mahavir and his teachings.

Celebrations of Mahavir Jayanti

On the occasion of Mahavir Jayanti, ancient Jain temples across India witness large number of practitioners paying their respects and taking part in the celebrations. One of the most significant events of the day is the Rath Yatra, a procession where the idol of Lord Mahavir is carried out on a chariot, and religious rhymes are recited. Additionally, many temples offer Abhishek, a ceremonial anointment given to statues of Lord Mahavir.

The Teachings of Lord Mahavir

Lectures by monks and nuns on Mahavir Jayanti preach the path of virtue as defined by Lord Mahavir. Lord Mahavir developed a five-fold path consisting of ‘Ahimsa’ (non-violence), ‘Asteya’ (non-stealing), ‘Brahmacharya’ (celibacy), ‘Satya’ (truthfulness), and ‘Aparigraha’ (non-possession) for all householders to follow. These teachings are still relevant and continue to influence Jainism today.

The Promise of Mahavir Jayanti

On Mahavir Jayanti, people promise to remember the teachings of Lord Mahavir and not hurt anyone in the future, knowingly and unknowingly. This promise is a reminder of the importance of non-violence and the significance of Lord Mahavir’s teachings in modern society.

Month: Current Affairs – April, 2023

Category: Art & Culture Current Affairs