By Staff Writer, Go Spiritual News Magazine & App : Download Go Spiritual News Magazine App Now.
April 10, 2025
Today, millions of Jains around the world come together to celebrate Mahavir Jayanti, one of the most significant festivals in Jainism, marking the birth anniversary of Lord Mahavira, the 24th and last Tirthankara (spiritual teacher) of the Jain tradition. Observed with deep reverence and joy, this sacred day falls on the 13th day of the waxing moon in the Hindu month of Chaitra, which aligns with April 10 this year.
Lord Mahavira, born in 599 BCE in Kshatriyakund (present-day Bihar, India) to King Siddhartha and Queen Trishala, is revered for his profound teachings of ahimsa (nonviolence), truth, and compassion. Renouncing his royal life at the age of 30, Mahavira spent 12 years in meditation and penance, attaining Kevala Jnana (infinite knowledge) under a sal tree. His life and philosophy continue to inspire not only Jains but spiritual seekers globally, emphasizing self-discipline, detachment, and respect for all forms of life.
This Mahavir Jayanti, temples across India and Jain communities worldwide are adorned with flowers, flags, and lights. The festivities began at dawn with devotees gathering for special prayers, processions, and recitations of Jain scriptures. In cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Ahmedabad, grand rath yatras (chariot processions) featuring statues of Lord Mahavira drew large crowds, symbolizing his journey of enlightenment. Many devotees participated in acts of charity, distributing food, clothing, and essentials to the underprivileged, reflecting the principle of aparigraha (non-possessiveness).
A highlight of this year’s celebrations is the growing emphasis on environmental consciousness, a value deeply rooted in Jainism. At the Shri Mahavirji Temple in Rajasthan, spiritual leaders delivered discourses linking ahimsa to sustainable living, urging followers to adopt plant-based diets and reduce their ecological footprint. “Lord Mahavira taught us that every soul, from the smallest insect to the largest animal, deserves respect,” said Acharya Vishuddhasagar, a prominent Jain monk, during a sermon. “In today’s world, this extends to protecting our planet.”
Globally, Jain diaspora communities in the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada marked the occasion with virtual prayer sessions and cultural programs, adapting to modern times while preserving tradition. In New York, the Jain Center of America hosted a webinar featuring scholars discussing Mahavira’s relevance in addressing contemporary challenges like conflict and materialism.
For many, Mahavir Jayanti is also a time for personal reflection and renewal. Devotees undertake fasts, meditation, and vows of silence to emulate Mahavira’s ascetic life. “This day reminds us to shed ego and embrace simplicity,” shared Priya Jain, a devotee from Bengaluru. “It’s a spiritual reset.”
As the sun sets on April 10, 2025, the message of Mahavir Jayanti resonates louder than ever: a call to live harmoniously with all beings and pursue inner peace. In a world often marked by division, Lord Mahavira’s timeless wisdom offers a beacon of hope and unity.
Go Spiritual News Magazine & App wishes all readers a blessed Mahavir Jayanti filled with serenity and enlightenment.
