As the world grapples with increasing violence, polarisation, and material excess, the timeless message of Bhagwan Mahavir – the apostle of non-violence and spiritual awakening – resounds louder than ever. On April 10, 2025, Jain communities across the globe will commemorate Mahavir Jayanti, also known as Mahavir Janma Kalyanak, marking the 2623rd birth anniversary of Bhagwan Mahavir, the 24th and final Tirthankara of Jainism.
According to the Hindu lunar calendar, this auspicious day falls on the Trayodashi Tithi (13th day) of the Shukla Paksha in the month of Chaitra, which this year begins at 10:55 PM on April 9 and ends at 1:00 AM on April 11, as per the Drik Panchang.
Born in 599 BCE in Kundagram (modern-day Kundalpur in Bihar), Bhagwan Mahavir, originally named Vardhamana, was the son of King Siddhartha and Queen Trishala. Despite his luxurious upbringing, he renounced worldly pleasures at the age of 30 and embraced the path of asceticism. After 12 years of intense meditation, he attained Kevala Jnana (omniscience), emerging as a Tirthankara—a spiritual teacher who guides seekers on the path to liberation.
Bhagwan Mahavir did not merely preach – he transformed the very foundation of Jainism. His five cardinal principles still serve as a moral compass for millions:
- Ahimsa (Non-violence): The supreme principle of Jain philosophy
- Satya (Truthfulness): Speaking and living with honesty
- Asteya (Non-stealing): Respecting others’ possessions and rights
- Brahmacharya (Chastity): Practicing self-restraint and purity
- Aparigraha (Non-possession): Renouncing materialism for spiritual growth
These teachings form the bedrock of ethical living, urging individuals to rise above anger, greed, and deceit.
Across Jain temples in India, Nepal, the UK, and the US, Mahavir Jayanti will be observed with pujas, spiritual discourses, and charitable activities. Devotees participate in scripture readings, animal welfare drives, and dana (donations), embodying the principle of compassion that Mahavir espoused.
The day’s main attraction remains the Rath Yatra—a grand procession where a richly decorated chariot carrying Bhagwan Mahavir’s murti is pulled through streets amidst chanting of hymns, music, and dances, spreading his message to all sections of society.
Mahavir Jayanti transcends religious boundaries. In a world rife with conflict, ecological degradation, and ethical erosion, this celebration serves as a powerful reminder of our collective responsibility—to choose peace over violence, truth over deception, and detachment over greed.
The relevance of Mahavir’s teachings is not confined to ancient texts. It reverberates in modern movements for animal rights, sustainable living, and inner transformation.
