Mahavir Jayanti Date: Mahavir Jayanti is the most important religious festival for followers of Jainism. It is celebrated as the birth anniversary of Lord Mahavir, the 24th and last Tirthankara of Jainism. On this day, his teachings on non-violence, truth, and self-restraint are remembered, inspiring society with the message of peace and humanity.
When is Mahavir Jayanti Date in 2025?
| Year | Date | Day | Tithi (Lunar Date) |
| 2025 | 10 April | Thursday | Chaitra Shukla Paksha Trayodashi |
The date of Mahavir Jayanti is determined according to the Hindu lunar calendar and usually falls in March or April in the Gregorian calendar.
Birth and Early Life of Lord Mahavir
Lord Mahavir was born in 599 BCE in Kundalgram near Vaishali, in present-day Bihar, India. His father was King Siddhartha, and his mother was Queen Trishala. At the time of his birth, astrologers predicted that the child would become a great spiritual figure.
From a young age, he was calm, meditative, and deeply spiritual. At the age of 30, he renounced his kingdom and worldly life to become an ascetic.
Spiritual Practice and Enlightenment
Through intense penance and self-restraint, Mahavir undertook 12 years of rigorous spiritual practices, after which he attained Kevala Jnana (omniscience). He then began spreading the principles and philosophy of Jainism.
He preached five fundamental vows:
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Ahimsa (Non-violence)
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Satya (Truth)
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Acharya (Non-stealing)
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Brahmacharya (Celibacy)
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Aparigraha (Non-possessiveness)
These teachings remain one of the most valuable moral directions for humanity even today.
Significance of Mahavir Jayanti
Mahavir Jayanti is not only a religious celebration but also a reminder of human values. Through the observance of this day:
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People pay homage to the life and philosophy of Lord Mahavir.
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Society is encouraged to follow the path of peace, restraint, and non-violence.
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Devotees focus on self-purification and moral living.
Rituals and Observances on Mahavir Jayanti
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Processions: Decorated chariots with Lord Mahavir’s idol are carried through the streets.
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Prayer and Meditation: Devotees visit Jain temples for sermons and meditation sessions.
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Charity and Service: Distribution of food and clothes to the poor, and organization of blood donation camps.
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Fasting and Vegetarian Meals: Many observe fasts and consume only sattvic (pure vegetarian) food.
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Spreading Messages of Peace: Educational institutions and organizations hold seminars on Mahavir’s teachings.
The Five Vows of Lord Mahavir (Pancha Mahavratas)
| No. | Vow | Meaning |
| 1 | Ahimsa | Not causing harm to any living being |
| 2 | Satya | Always speaking the truth |
| 3 | Acharya | Not stealing or taking anything without permission |
| 4 | Brahmacharya | Leading a life of self-control |
| 5 | Aparigraha | Renouncing material desires and practicing detachment |
Famous Quotes by Lord Mahavir
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“Non-violence is the highest religion.”
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“Conquering oneself is the greatest victory.”
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“All living beings have an equal right to life.”
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“True happiness comes not from indulgence, but from restraint.”
Relevance of Mahavir’s Teachings in Today’s Society
In today’s world, which is filled with violence, conflict, materialism, and ego, the teachings of Lord Mahavir hold immense importance. His principles of non-violence, truth, and restraint can guide us toward building a more humane, peaceful, and tolerant society.
Conclusion
Mahavir Jayanti is not just a religious festival; it is a philosophy of life. Lord Mahavir taught us how to live a simple, truthful, and self-disciplined life. On this day, let us embrace his teachings in our hearts and spread the message of love and compassion around us.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Mahavir Jayanti
Q1. What is Mahavir Jayanti?
A: Mahavir Jayanti is the birth anniversary of Lord Mahavir, the 24th Tirthankara of Jainism. It is one of the holiest and most important festivals for Jains.
Q2. When is Mahavir Jayanti in 2025?
A: In 2025, Mahavir Jayanti will be celebrated on April 10 (Thursday).
Q3. Where was Lord Mahavir born?
A: Lord Mahavir was born in Kundalgram, near ancient Vaishali, in present-day Bihar.
Q4. Why is Mahavir Jayanti celebrated?
A: It is observed to honor and remember Lord Mahavir’s teachings of non-violence, truth, self-restraint, and spiritual knowledge.
Q5. What religion did Lord Mahavir belong to?
A: Lord Mahavir was the last Tirthankara of Jainism and the founder of its core philosophies.
Q6. What rituals are performed on Mahavir Jayanti?
A: Worship in temples, prayers, fasting, processions, acts of charity, and recitation of Lord Mahavir’s teachings are common rituals.
Q7. What are the five core teachings of Lord Mahavir?
A:
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Ahimsa (Non-violence)
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Satya (Truthfulness)
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Acharya (Non-stealing)
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Brahmacharya (Celibacy)
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Aparigraha (Non-possession)
Q8. Is Mahavir Jayanti a national holiday?
A: Yes, Mahavir Jayanti is observed as a national holiday in India, especially in states with a significant Jain population.
Q9. What can we learn from Lord Mahavir’s life?
A: He teaches us to live a life of non-violence, self-restraint, truthfulness, and compassion for all living beings.
Q10. How do children celebrate Mahavir Jayanti?
A: Children listen to stories about Mahavir, participate in educational contests, depict his life through drawings, and offer prayers at temples.
Q11. Which famous quote by Mahavir remains popular?
A: “Non-violence is the highest religion.” — This is one of his most famous and relevant quotes even today.
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