Mahavir Jayanti 2025 – Epitome of Ahimsa, Asteya and Aprigraha
Mahavir Jayanti, one of the most revered festivals in Jainism, celebrates the birth of Lord Mahavir, the 24th and final Tirthankara. A beacon of peace, renunciation, and spiritual wisdom, Lord Mahavir’s life and teachings continue to inspire millions across the world. In 2025, this divine occasion will be celebrated with devotion and enthusiasm on Thursday, April 10.
Important Dates and Timings
Festival Date: Thursday, April 10, 2025
Trayodashi Tithi Begins: April 9, 2025 at 10:55 PM
Trayodashi Tithi Ends: April 11, 2025 at 1:00 AM
These timings mark the sacred lunar phase believed to coincide with the birth of Mahavir Swami.
The Life and Legacy of Lord Mahavir
Lord Mahavir was born in 599 BCE in Kundalagrama (modern-day Kundalpur), near Vaishali in Bihar. Born as Vardhaman into a royal family, he enjoyed the comforts of princely life. However, driven by a deeper spiritual calling, he renounced everything at the age of 30 to seek truth and liberation.
He spent 12 years in deep meditation and ascetic practices, ultimately attaining Kevala Jnana (omniscience). Thereafter, he traveled across the Indian subcontinent spreading his message of non-violence, compassion, and truth.
How Mahavir Jayanti is Celebrated
On this sacred day, Jain communities around the world come together in devotion, reflection, and celebration.
Temple Ceremonies: Jain temples become centers of prayer and activity. The idol of Lord Mahavir is ceremonially bathed in a ritual known as Abhisheka, then beautifully decorated with flowers and offerings.
Processions (Rath Yatra): In many towns and cities, devotees take part in vibrant processions where Lord Mahavir’s idol is placed on a chariot and paraded with chanting, singing, and devotional performances.
Fasting and Spiritual Discipline: Many Jains observe fasts, meditate, and engage in scriptural studies, reflecting on Mahavir’s teachings.
Acts of Kindness: Charity and community service are integral to this celebration. Distributing food, supporting the needy, and promoting non-violence are central to the day’s activities.
Public Recognition
Mahavir Jayanti is recognized as a public holiday in many Indian states. Government offices, schools, and businesses often remain closed, allowing citizens to participate in the day’s observances.
The Eternal Teachings of Mahavir
At the heart of Mahavir’s teachings lie five fundamental vows, which form the ethical foundation of Jain philosophy:
Ahimsa (Non-violence): Avoiding harm to all living beings—physically, mentally, and emotionally.
Satya (Truth): Speaking and living truthfully with integrity.
Asteya (Non-stealing): Respecting others’ possessions and not taking what isn’t freely given.
Brahmacharya (Celibacy): Practicing purity of mind and self-restraint.
Aparigraha (Non-possession): Letting go of attachments and living a life of simplicity.
A Day of Reflection and Renewal
Mahavir Jayanti is not just a festival—it’s an invitation to realign with values of peace, tolerance, and inner purity. It serves as a reminder that spiritual growth and compassion can transform not only individual lives but the world at large.
- Religion World Bureau
