- By Kashish Rai
- Tue, 08 Apr 2025 12:35 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Mahavir Jayanti 2025 is a highly revered festival in Jainism, celebrating the birth of Lord Mahavir. Also known as Mahavir Janma Kalyanak, this auspicious occasion falls on the 13th day of the waxing moon (Shukla Paksha) Trayodashi tithi in the Hindu month of Chaitra. Observed annually, Mahavir Jayanti holds great significance in the Jain calendar, honouring the life and teachings of Lord Mahavir. Devotees mark this day with great fervour, reflecting on the principles of non-violence, compassion and self-discipline that Lord Mahavir embodied.
Check out the date, significance and rituals for the birth anniversary of the 24th Jain Tirthankar - Lord Mahavir:
Mahavir Jayanti 2025: Date
This year, Mahavir Jayanti will be observed on 10th April 2025, Thursday.
Mahavir Jayanti 2025: Significance
According to the Mahavir Purana, Lord Mahavir was born a Tirthankara - a spiritual teacher for the benefit of the world and the attainment of Nirvana. The Svetambara Jains believe that Mahavir was conceived in the womb of a Brahmin woman but Lord Indra transferred the embryo to the womb of a Kshatriya woman, seeking a more favourable environment for the child's upbringing. In contrast, the Digambara Jains do not believe in this version of events. During her pregnancy, Mahavir's mother is said to have had a series of auspicious dreams which were believed to foretell the birth of a Tirthankara.
As described in Jain tradition, these dreams were a series of vivid and symbolic visions. They included a majestic white elephant with four tusks, a tame bull, a playful lion, the goddess Lakshmi, a garland of flowers, the sun, the full moon, two fishes, two golden vases, a lotus lake, the ocean, a throne of diamonds and rubies, a celestial abode and a great fire. These dreams were believed to signify the birth of a child who would possess great spiritual qualities, including the ability to dispel ignorance and achieve enlightenment. The Svetambara Jains believe that Mahavir's mother saw 16 dreams, while the Digambara Jains believe she saw 14.
Lord Mahavir's life was marked by a series of significant events. At the age of 30, he renounced his kingdom and worldly possessions, embarking on a spiritual journey in the forest. Through intense penance and meditation, he gained profound spiritual knowledge and developed a deep understanding of the nature of life. As a spiritual teacher, he preached his knowledge to others, overcoming numerous challenges and achieving spiritual enlightenment. According to Jain tradition, Lord Mahavir is considered the last of the 24 Tirthankaras - revered beings who have attained Nirvana and liberation from the cycle of birth and death.
According to the Mahavir Purana, Lord Mahavir was born a Tirthankara with the purpose of guiding humanity towards spiritual enlightenment. (Image Source: Freepik)
Mahavir Jayanti 2025: Rituals
To observe Mahavir Jayanti, devotees maintain austerity and fast throughout the day, focusing on spiritual reflection and devotion. The puja altar or room is adorned with flowers, creating a sacred and peaceful atmosphere. The idol of Mahavir is cleansed through Abhishekam using water and milk. Offerings of sweets, flowers and fruits are made to the deity. Devotees also chant prayers to worship Lord Mahavir.
In addition to these rituals, many Jains engage in acts of charity, serving the poor by providing clothes, money, food etc. On this day, Jain temples are often marked by the presence of a new flag at the top, symbolising the celebration of Mahavir's birth. Some groups also organise processions, carrying the idol of Mahavir through the streets as a way of sharing the joy and significance of this auspicious occasion with the community.
(Disclaimer: This content includes advice providing generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified spiritual or astrological opinion. Always consult a specialist for more information before adopting any measures.)
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