Digital News Desk Festival Desk:
Mahavir Jayanti, observed on April 10, 2025, marks the 2623rd birth anniversary of Lord Mahavir, the 24th and last Tirthankara of Jainism. This auspicious day holds profound significance for millions of Jain devotees worldwide, commemorating the life and teachings of a spiritual leader whose principles of non-violence, truth, and compassion continue to resonate in contemporary society.
Historical Background
Born as Vardhamana in 599 BCE in Kundagrama, present-day Bihar, India, Lord Mahavir was the son of King Siddhartha and Queen Trishala. According to Jain beliefs, during her pregnancy, Queen Trishala experienced a series of auspicious dreams, interpreted as signs of the birth of a great soul. At the age of 30, Mahavir renounced his princely status and embarked on a path of asceticism, seeking spiritual enlightenment. After 12 years of rigorous penance and meditation, he attained ‘Kevala Jnana’ (omniscience) and spent the remainder of his life preaching the principles of Jainism. His teachings emphasized five core vows: Ahimsa (non-violence), Satya (truthfulness), Asteya (non-stealing), Brahmacharya (chastity), and Aparigraha (non-possessiveness).
Significance of Mahavir Jayanti
Mahavir Jayanti serves as a reminder of Lord Mahavir’s enduring teachings and their relevance in promoting peace, ethical living, and harmony. It is a day for devotees to reflect on these principles and strive to incorporate them into their daily lives. The festival underscores the importance of self-discipline, compassion, and the pursuit of spiritual wisdom.
Date and Observance in 2025
In 2025, Mahavir Jayanti falls on Thursday, April 10. The festival is observed on the 13th day (Trayodashi) of the bright half (Shukla Paksha) of the Chaitra month in the Hindu calendar. According to Drik Panchang, the Trayodashi Tithi begins at 10:55 PM on April 9 and concludes at 1:00 AM on April 11. Given that the Trayodashi tithi begins late at night, the observance of the festival starts on April 10.
Traditional Celebrations
Mahavir Jayanti is celebrated with various rituals and ceremonies that reflect the devotion of the Jain community:
- Temple Visits and Prayers: Devotees visit Jain temples to offer prayers and engage in meditation. Special prayer sessions and sermons focus on the life and teachings of Lord Mahavir.
- Abhisheka (Ceremonial Bathing): Idols of Lord Mahavir are ceremonially bathed in a ritual known as ‘Abhisheka,’ symbolizing purification.
- Rath Yatra (Chariot Procession): In many regions, grand processions featuring ornately decorated chariots carrying Lord Mahavir’s idol are taken through the streets. Devotees sing hymns and recite religious rhymes during these processions.
- Charitable Acts: Emphasizing the principle of compassion, many Jains engage in charitable activities, including donating to the underprivileged and organizing events to protect animals.
- Fasting and Penance: Some devotees observe fasts and undertake penance as a means of spiritual purification and reflection.
Public Observances and Closures
In honor of Mahavir Jayanti, several institutions observe closures:
- Banks: According to the Reserve Bank of India calendar, banks are closed in multiple states, including Gujarat, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, and Telangana.
- Stock Markets: Both the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) and the National Stock Exchange (NSE) are not operational on this day.
- Educational Institutions and Government Offices: Many schools and government offices nationwide observe the holiday, resulting in closures.
Messages and Wishes
Mahavir Jayanti is also a time for sharing goodwill and spreading the teachings of Lord Mahavir. Here are some messages and wishes commonly shared during the festival:
- “Wishing you and your family peace, harmony, and spiritual bliss on this Mahavir Jayanti.”
- “May Lord Mahavir bless your life with truth, non-violence, and compassion. Happy Mahavir Jayanti!”
- “Let us follow the path of Ahimsa, truth, and peace shown by Lord Mahavir. Wishing you a blessed Mahavir Jayanti.”
- “On this holy occasion, may Lord Mahavir inspire you to always walk on the path of righteousness. Happy Mahavir Jayanti!”
- “May you be blessed with spiritual awakening, compassion, and inner peace on Mahavir Jayanti.”
Contemporary Relevance
The teachings of Lord Mahavir hold timeless relevance, advocating for a way of life that emphasizes ethical conduct, non-violence, and self-discipline. In today’s world, marked by conflicts and material pursuits, his principles serve as a guiding light for fostering peace, compassion, and sustainability. Mahavir Jayanti is not only a celebration of his birth but also an opportunity for individuals to introspect and align their actions with values that promote universal well-being.
Conclusion
Mahavir Jayanti stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Lord Mahavir’s teachings. It is a day that inspires devotees and individuals alike to embody the virtues of non-violence, truth, and compassion.
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