The Jain community honors Lord Mahavir, a respected figure in Jainism, on his birth anniversary with the celebration of Mahavir Jayanti, an important occasion. According to the Hindu calendar, this day occurs on the thirteenth day of Shukla Paksha in the month of Chaitra. Let’s examine the background, customs, meaning, teachings of Lord Mahavir, and famous sayings related to Mahavir Jayanti 2024.
Mahavir Jayanti: Date
Mahavir Jayanti is observed on Sunday, April 21, 2024. Jains celebrate this day with the highest compassion and respect worldwide.
This is supposed to be Lord Mahavir’s 2622nd Jayanti, which will be held on April 21 but begin late on April 20.
History Behind This Auspicious Day
Approximately 599 BCE saw the birth of Lord Mahavir, the last Jain Tirthankara, in the now-Bihar state of Vaishali, an ancient empire.
Having been born into a royal family, Lord Mahavir’s birth name was Vardhamana. His parents were King Siddhartha and Queen Trishala. Lord Mahavir, also known as Prince Vardhamana, is said to have displayed indications of his spiritual tendencies and desire to give up the world at a very young age. This wish eventually came true and guided him to enlightenment.
As Vardhamana grew older, he began his spiritual quest for enlightenment and truth at the age of 30, giving up his princely rank. He is reported to have practiced rigorous meditation, self-discipline, and austerities for the next twelve years in order to achieve “Kevala Jnana,” the highest level of enlightenment in Jainism. Subsequently, at 42 years of age, he became a Tirthankara and ultimately became Lord Mahavir.
The core beliefs of Jainism, according to Lord Mahavir, are non-violence, Satya truth, non-stealing, Brahmacharya, and non-attachment.
The Significance Of Mahavir Jayanti
The day of Mahavir Jayanti is highly revered by Jains worldwide. On this day in history, a spiritual leader who advocated for nonviolence and compassion for all living things was born. His teachings place a strong focus on living a moral life, exercising self-control, and becoming detached from the world’s material things.
Mahavir Jayanti is typically observed in a low-key manner without much fanfare or spectacle. Devotees visit Jain temples early in the morning to offer prayers and seek the blessings of the Tirthankara Mahavir, also known as “Vardhamana Mahavir.” After that, special prayers and rituals are performed, which include recitations of Jain scriptures like the Kalpa Sutra and the teachings of Lord Mahavir. Additionally, devotees engage in charitable giving by giving the less fortunate food, clothing, and cash. It should be mentioned that giving to charity is the pinnacle of compassion and selflessness, making it one of the most significant Jain teachings and tenets.
In addition to early morning prayers and scripture recitals, another tradition associated with Mahavir Jayanti is the Rath Yatra parade. During the Rath Yatra, a chariot containing the idol of Lord Mahavir is paraded through the streets, and crowds of people encircle the chariot while chanting and singing hymns.
The chariot is embellished with flowers, vibrant decorations, and other items.
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