Mark your calendars! Mahavir Jayanti 2024 is here. Learn about the history and significance of this Jain festival celebrating non-violence. Discover ways to celebrate.
Mahavir Jayanti, one of the most significant festivals for Jains worldwide, commemorates the birth anniversary of Lord Mahavira, the 24th and last Tirthankara (spiritual leader) of Jainism. This year, Mahavir Jayanti falls on Sunday, April 21st, 2024. Let’s delve into the rich history of this festival and explore ways to celebrate its core principles: non-violence (ahimsa), compassion (karuna), and liberation (moksha).
A Glimpse into History
Historical accounts suggest Lord Mahavira was born in Kundalagrama, Bihar, in 599 BC (some sources say 615 BC) to King Siddhartha and Queen Trishala. He renounced his royal life at the age of 30 and embarked on a twelve-year journey of self-realization, practicing strict asceticism and meditation. After attaining enlightenment, he spent the next 30 years preaching the principles of Jainism, emphasizing non-violence in all aspects of life – towards thoughts, words, and actions. His teachings resonated with many, leading to the flourishing of Jainism as a major Indian religion.
Celebrating Ahimsa and Compassion
Mahavir Jayanti is a day for Jains to remember and honor Lord Mahavira’s life and teachings. Here are some ways the festival is celebrated:
Prayers and Meditation: Devotees visit Jain temples for special prayers and meditation sessions, reflecting on Lord Mahavira’s message of non-violence and spiritual liberation.
Religious Processions (Rath Yatra): In some regions, elaborate processions carrying statues of Lord Mahavira are organized, allowing devotees to express their devotion publicly.
Non-Violent Feasts: Jains practice strict vegetarianism, and Mahavir Jayanti is often marked by elaborate vegetarian feasts with an emphasis on locally sourced, seasonal ingredients.
Acts of Charity: The festival encourages acts of charity and social service. Devotees may donate food, clothes, or money to the less fortunate, reflecting the Jain principle of compassion for all living beings.
Fasting: Some Jains may observe a day-long fast as a form of self-discipline and to further their commitment to non-violence.
Studying Jain Scriptures: Reading and discussing excerpts from sacred Jain texts like the Acaranga Sutra or Tattvartha Sutra helps devotees deepen their understanding of Lord Mahavira’s teachings.
Beyond the Festival: A Message for All
The principles of non-violence, compassion, and liberation advocated by Lord Mahavira hold universal significance. Celebrating Mahavir Jayanti isn’t just about commemorating a historical figure; it’s about embracing these timeless values in our own lives. Here are some ways we can all incorporate these principles beyond the festival:
Practicing Kindness and Compassion: Everyday acts of kindness towards others, including animals and the environment, reflect the core Jain principle of ahimsa.
Living a Mindful Life: Being mindful of our thoughts and actions can help us choose non-violent solutions in daily situations.
Promoting Peace: Actively working towards peace within ourselves, in our communities, and in the world upholds Lord Mahavira’s message of non-violence.
महावीर जयंती (Mahavir Jayanti) is an opportunity to remember Lord Mahavira’s legacy and commit ourselves to living a more compassionate and mindful life. Let’s celebrate this festival by embracing peace, non-violence, and respect for all living beings.