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Mahavir Jayanti 2025: On this day, devotees honour the teachings of Lord Mahavir with rituals, charity, and prayer.
Mahavir Jayanti 2025: This festival is primarily observed by the Jain community. (File Pic)
Mahavir Jayanti 2025: Mahavir Jayanti is a highly revered festival, primarily observed by the Jain community. It commemorates the birth anniversary of Lord Mahavir Swami, the 24th Tirthankara of Jainism. On this sacred day, devotees honour his teachings, express deep gratitude, and perform various rituals with devotion.
This year, Mahavir Jayanti falls on April 10. According to the Drik Panchang, it is observed on the Trayodashi of Shukla Paksha in the Chaitra month. The Trayodashi Tithi will commence on April 9 at 10:55 PM and conclude on April 11 at 1 AM.
Mahavir Jayanti 2025: History
Mahavir Jayanti marks the birth anniversary of Lord Mahavir, the 24th and last Tirthankara of Jainism. Born in 599 BCE (according to some texts) in Kundagrama, present-day Bihar, he was a prince of the Ikshvaku dynasty. His birth is believed to have been accompanied by divine signs, symbolising his future role as a great spiritual leader.
Despite his royal upbringing, Mahavir renounced his worldly life at the age of 30 in search of enlightenment. After 12 years of intense meditation and self-discipline, he attained Kevala Jnana (absolute knowledge). He then spent the rest of his life preaching Ahimsa (non-violence), Satya (truth), Asteya (non-stealing), Brahmacharya (celibacy), and Aparigraha (non-possession), forming the core principles of Jainism.
Mahavir Jayanti is a day for devotees to reflect on his teachings, perform charitable acts, and engage in rituals that promote peace and spiritual growth.
Mahavir Jayanti 2025: Significance
This sacred festival is dedicated to honouring the five fundamental principles taught by Lord Mahavir: non-violence (Ahimsa), truth (Satya), non-stealing (Asteya), celibacy (Brahmacharya), and non-possession (Aparigraha). These values form the foundation of Jain philosophy and promote a life of compassion, integrity and self-discipline.
On this auspicious day, devotees reflect deeply on Lord Mahavir’s life, drawing inspiration from his unwavering commitment to peace and righteousness. Many engage in prayer, meditation, and acts of kindness, striving to incorporate his teachings into their daily lives. The festival serves as a reminder to cultivate inner harmony, practice ethical living, and contribute to the well-being of all living beings.
Mahavir Jayanti 2025: Celebrations
Mahavir Jayanti is a deeply revered occasion for Jains across the globe, observed with immense devotion and enthusiasm. While the customs may vary among different communities, the celebration commonly features a grand Rath Yatra, where an idol of Lord Mahavir is carried on a beautifully decorated chariot, symbolising the dissemination of his profound teachings.
Devotees express their reverence through Bhajans (devotional songs) that glorify Lord Mahavir’s invaluable contributions to Jainism. The idol is then ceremonially bathed in a ritual known as Abhisheka, signifying purification and spiritual renewal.
Beyond these religious practices, the festival is also a time for selfless service and charity, reflecting Lord Mahavir’s message of compassion and generosity.
Many devotees visit Jain temples, engage in prayer gatherings, and seek spiritual enlightenment. Community leaders and scholars conduct discourses and sermons, emphasising the core values of Jainism—non-violence, truth, and self-discipline—guiding followers on a path of righteousness and inner peace.
