Mahavir Jayanti is one of the most important festivals for followers of Jainism. It marks the birth anniversary of Lord Mahavir, the 24th Tirthankara (spiritual teacher) of Jainism. This year, Mahavir Jayanti is being celebrated on Thursday, April 10, 2025. On this sacred day, Jains around the world honor Lord Mahavir and reflect on his teachings of non-violence, truth, and compassion.
Who Was Lord Mahavir?
Lord Mahavir was born in Kundalagrama, which is in present-day Bihar, India. His parents were King Siddhartha and Queen Trishala. It is believed that he was born on the 13th day of the bright half of Chaitra month, according to the Hindu calendar. This day usually comes in March or April every year.
Different groups of Jains believe in different birth years. Swetambar Jains say he was born in 599 BC, and Digambar Jains say he was born in 615 BC. But everyone agrees that his life and teachings are very important for the Jain religion.
Lord Mahavir left his royal life at the age of 30 and lived as a monk. He spent the next 12 years in deep meditation and lived a very simple and peaceful life. He taught people to live without hurting others. His teachings are still followed by millions of people today.
Why Is Mahavir Jayanti Celebrated?
Mahavir Jayanti is celebrated to honor the birth and teachings of Lord Mahavir. On this day, people remember the values he taught, such as:
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Ahimsa (non-violence)
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Satya (truth)
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Asteya (not stealing)
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Brahmacharya (self-control)
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Aparigraha (non-attachment)
These values help people live a good and peaceful life. Mahavir Jayanti is a time to reflect on these values and try to follow them in our own lives.
How Do People Celebrate Mahavir Jayanti?
On Mahavir Jayanti, Jain temples are decorated with lights, flowers, and flags. Special prayers and bhajans (devotional songs) are held in temples. Many people visit the temple early in the morning to offer their prayers.
Some cities organize processions, where people carry idols of Lord Mahavir on decorated chariots. The procession includes singing, dancing, and chanting of holy messages.
Many people also do charity on this day. They donate food, clothes, and money to the poor. Some people even stop eating certain foods to show self-control and respect to the teachings of Mahavir.
Children and adults both take part in programs at schools, community centers, and temples. They perform plays, speeches, and dances to share Mahavir’s message with others.
Messages and Wishes to Share
Here are some simple and thoughtful wishes you can send to your family and friends on Mahavir Jayanti:
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Wishing you peace, love, and harmony on Mahavir Jayanti. May Lord Mahavir’s blessings be with you always.
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Let us follow the path of truth, kindness, and non-violence taught by Lord Mahavir. Happy Mahavir Jayanti.
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May this holy day inspire you to walk the path of simplicity and inner peace. Happy Mahavir Jayanti to you and your family.
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Celebrate Mahavir Jayanti by spreading joy and helping others. Wishing you a blessed and peaceful day.
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May Lord Mahavir give you the strength to choose peace over anger, love over hate, and truth over lies. Happy Mahavir Jayanti.
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On this day of Mahavir Jayanti, let us remember to live with love and respect for all living beings.
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Wishing you a life full of happiness, calm, and spiritual growth. Have a peaceful Mahavir Jayanti.
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Live simply, think deeply, and love freely—just like Lord Mahavir taught. Happy Mahavir Jayanti.
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May Mahavir Jayanti fill your heart with compassion and your mind with wisdom.
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Let's take a moment to reflect, forgive, and grow on this sacred day. Happy Mahavir Jayanti.
Inspiring Quotes from Lord Mahavir
Here are some beautiful quotes you can reflect on this Mahavir Jayanti:
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Live and let live. – Lord Mahavir
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Non-violence is the highest religion. – Lord Mahavir
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The soul comes alone and goes alone. No one can escape karma. – Lord Mahavir
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All living beings have the same soul. Respect all life.
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Silence and self-control are the true signs of wisdom.
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Anger, ego, and greed are your real enemies. Defeat them to find peace.
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Truth is the foundation of all virtues. – Lord Mahavir
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A man is not called wise because he talks and talks again; but if he is peaceful, loving, and fearless then he is truly called wise.
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Do not harm others, because you do not want to be harmed.
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Happiness is not found in things. It is found in kindness, forgiveness, and peace.
Mahavir Jayanti is a special day that reminds us to live a life full of compassion, peace, and truth. In today’s busy world, the teachings of Lord Mahavir are more important than ever. By following his path, we can become better people and create a more loving world for everyone.
