Mahavir Jayanti is one of the most important festivals among the Jain community and is celebrated with great happiness in India and across the world. It marks the birth of Lord Mahavira, and according to Jain mythology, Lord Mahavira is the 24th Tirthankara of Jainism.
Lord Mahavira was born on the 13th day of the waxing moon in the month of Chaitra (as per the Hindu calendar) in Kundalagrama (now known as Kundalpur) in Bihar, located a few kilometers away from Patna. Mahavir Jayanti is celebrated to promote the message of peace and harmony and to spread the teachings of Lord Mahavira.
A grand procession is carried out in the form of a “rath yatra”. The idol of Lord Mahavira is respectfully placed on top of the chariot, Jain temples are beautifully decorated with flags, and people offer food and clothes to the needy.
Mahavir Jayanti: Celebrations and Rituals
Mahavir Jayanti is one of the most important festivals in Jainism. It marks the birth anniversary of Lord Mahavir, the 24th and last Tirthankara of Jainism. The festival is celebrated with great devotion by Jains across India and in various parts of the world. Temples are beautifully decorated, prayers are offered, and charitable acts like feeding the poor and donating clothes are carried out in honor of Lord Mahavir’s teachings of non-violence, truth, and compassion.
Mahavir Jayanti Date 2025: 10th April
When is Mahavir Jayanti Celebrated?
Mahavir Jayanti falls on the 13th day of the Hindu month of Chaitra, which usually comes in March or April.
How is Mahavir Jayanti Celebrated?
1. Early Morning Processions (Rath Yatra)
- A grand procession, also called a “Rath Yatra,” is carried out with an idol of Lord Mahavir placed in a beautifully decorated chariot.
- Devotees sing hymns and chant prayers while taking part in the procession.
2. Temple Rituals
- Jains visit temples early in the morning to offer prayers and seek blessings.
- The idol of Lord Mahavir is given a ceremonial bath called “Abhishek” with milk, water, and fragrant substances.
3. Charity and Donations
- Giving to the poor and needy is an important part of the celebration.
- Many Jains donate food, clothes, and money to charities, hospitals, and animal shelters.
4. Lectures and Teachings
- Special spiritual lectures and sermons are organized in temples to spread the teachings of Lord
- Mahavir, which emphasize non-violence (Ahimsa), truth (Satya), and simple living.
5. Fasting and Meditation
- Many devotees observe fasts as a way of showing devotion and practicing self-discipline.
- Some Jains also meditate and spend the day in prayer.
6. Acts of Kindness Towards Animals
- Since Jainism strongly promotes non-violence, special efforts are made to protect and feed animals on this day.
Mahavir Jayanti is a day of peace, kindness, and self-reflection. It reminds everyone to live a life of honesty, compassion, and simplicity, following the teachings of Lord Mahavir.
Spiritual Places for Mahavir Jayanti 2025
These are the spiritual places to consider during the Mahavir Jayanti festival. The Mahavir Jayanti celebrations take place on a very happy note here!
1. Madhuban
Madhuban, located in Jharkhand, is a very spiritual and important place for Jain people who come here often to have a good time.
2. Girnarji
Girnarji is located in Gujarat and is also a very divine place for the Jain people.
3. Gomateshwara
Talking about the important destinations, it is one of the most attractive ones in Karnataka to visit during the Mahavir Jayanti festival.
4. Mangi Tungi
It is the other renowned place of adoration for Jains in Maharashtra.
5. Gajpantha
One of the best places to visit in Maharashtra for Mahavir Jayanti celebrations. You will be mesmerized to witness the temple of this place which devotees need to climb up 460 steps in order to reach.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)
Q: What is Mahavir Jayanti 2025?
A:Mahavir Jayanti 2025, falling on April 10, celebrates the birth of Lord Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara of Jainism, known for his teachings on non-violence and truth.
Q: Where is Mahavir Jayanti celebrated in India?
A:Mahavir Jayanti is celebrated across India, especially in states with large Jain populations like Gujarat, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, and Karnataka.
Q: Is Mahavir Jayanti a gazetted holiday?
A:Yes, Mahavir Jayanti is a gazetted holiday in India, with government offices, schools, and many businesses remaining closed.