The birth anniversary of the 24th and the last Tirthankara of the Jains, Vardhman Mahavir, the founder of Jainism, is celebrated by the Jain community in March. Born a prince in 599 BC, Mahavir renounced worldly life at the age of 30 and undertook austere penance until he achieved realisation.
Mahavir, also known as Vardhamana, is the last one in the galaxy of Twenty-four Teerthankaras (Jain Prophets). Lord Mahavir has been acclaimed as one of the greatest prophets of peace and social reformation that Bharat has ever produced. He was born to a pious couple, Siddhartha (king of Kaundinyapura on the outskirts of Vaishali near Patna in Bihar). and Priyakarani or popularly Trishala Devi - who were deeply permeated with the philosophy of Jainism preached by Parswanatha, the 23rd Teerthankara.
Mahavir renounced worldly life at the age of 30 and undertook austere penance until he achieved realisation. Even as a boy, Mahavira came to be associated with many episodes of absolute fearlessness which earned him the name `Mahavira . He grew up as a prince, excelling in physical prowess and intellectual acumen. He renounced the pleasures and luxuries of the place, as also the power and prestige of kingship and undertook a life of intense penance for more than twelve years. He calmly bore not only the rigors of nature but the torments from the ignorant and mischievous among his own countrymen also. He finally became self-illumined. But not content with his own personal salvation, he chose to become a great human redeemer.
Lord Mahavir spread the message of salvation to the world and had many followers. Mahavir preached non-violence, prohibited any kind of killing and taught his followers to seek salvation through penance and abstinence. They are also advised to donate money, clothes and grain to the poor. The Jains are divided into many sects of whom the main ones are Digambaras and Shvetambaras with the latter again divided into Deravasis and Sthanakvasis.
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Mahavira initiated a simple five-fold path for the householders: Ahimsa (Non-injury - physical or mental - to others), Asteya (non-stealing), Brahmacharya (temperance in sexual pleasures) and Aparigraha (non-acquisition of property). Mahavira s injunctions for the monks and nuns were however very exacting. Abstinence from every kind of physical comfort and material possession and absolute dedication to the highest ethical and spiritual discipline were enforced. Even to this day, nearly 2600 years after the passing away of that great master, this pure and upright tradition of the monks has been maintained. Thousands of white clad Sanyasins and Sanyasinis and also nude monks move on foot from place to place throughout the length and breadth of the country, carrying Mahavira s gospel of peace, non-injury and brotherhood among people.
Mahavira left his mortal coils at the age of 71 on the Deepavali day. But the lamp of peace which he lit continues to glow through the myriad lights of the Festival of Lights.
Significance
The significance of Mahavir Jayanti extends deeply into the spiritual and ethical teachings of Jainism. Here are the main aspects of its significance:1. Celebration of Spiritual Enlightenment
Mahavir Jayanti commemorates the birth of Lord Mahavir, who is revered as one of the greatest spiritual teachers in Jainism. His birth is seen as a divine event that brought immense spiritual light and guidance to humanity.
2. Promotion of Jain Values
The festival highlights the core principles of Jain philosophy, which are:
- Ahimsa (Non-Violence): Promoting peace and compassion towards all living beings.
- Satya (Truthfulness): Encouraging honesty and integrity in all aspects of life.
- Aparigraha (Non-Possessiveness): Advocating detachment from material possessions and desires.
- Asteya (Non-Stealing): Emphasizing respect for others’ property and rights.
- Brahmacharya (Celibacy/Chastity): Promoting self-control and purity of thought and action.
Mahavir Jayanti serves as an opportunity for Jains to reflect on the teachings of Lord Mahavir and renew their commitment to the path of righteousness. It’s a time for personal and communal introspection.
4. Strengthening Community Bonds
The festival fosters a sense of community among Jains. The shared rituals, processions, and charitable activities bring people together to celebrate their faith and support one another.
5. Educational and Inspirational
The teachings of Lord Mahavir are central to Jain education. During Mahavir Jayanti, stories from his life, his discourses, and his path to enlightenment are recounted, offering inspiration and guidance to followers.
6. Spreading Awareness
Mahavir Jayanti is also a time for spreading awareness about Jainism’s contributions to philosophy, ethics, and social justice. It’s a moment for both Jains and non-Jains to learn about the principles that Lord Mahavir taught.
7. Promotion of Peace and Harmony
By emphasizing values such as non-violence and truth, Mahavir Jayanti encourages followers to contribute to a more peaceful and harmonious world.
In summary, Mahavir Jayanti is not just a religious observance but a celebration of values that transcend the boundaries of faith and offer universal lessons for living a righteous and meaningful life.
The celebration of Mahavir Jayanti is a vibrant and spiritually enriching event for Jains. Here’s a detailed overview of the various ways in which Mahavir Jayanti is celebrated:1. Processions and Parades
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Description: Grand processions are a central feature of Mahavir Jayanti celebrations. These processions often feature beautifully decorated floats carrying idols or images of Lord Mahavir.
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Activities: Devotees walk through the streets singing hymns, chanting prayers, and carrying banners and flags. Some processions also include traditional music and dance performances.
2. Temple Rituals and Pujas
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Description: Special rituals and pujas (worship ceremonies) are conducted in Jain temples.
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Activities:
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Aarti: Devotees perform aarti (a devotional ritual of worship) where a lighted lamp is circled in front of Lord Mahavir’s idol.
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Bhajans and Kirtans: Religious songs and hymns dedicated to Lord Mahavir are sung.
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Prayers and Offerings: Devotees offer flowers, fruits, and sweets to Lord Mahavir’s idol as a mark of devotion.
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3. Recitation of Scriptures and Sermons
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Description: Religious teachings and scriptures are read or recited in temples and homes.
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Activities:
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Jain Texts: Passages from Jain scriptures, such as the Kalpasutra or Tattvartha Sutra, are read aloud.
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Lectures: Spiritual leaders or scholars give sermons explaining the life and teachings of Lord Mahavir.
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4. Acts of Charity and Service
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Description: Charity is an essential part of Mahavir Jayanti celebrations.
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Activities:
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Food Distribution: Many Jains organize free meals (langar) for the underprivileged.
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Donations: Contributions are made to various charitable organizations and causes, such as hospitals, schools, and animal shelters.
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5. Fasting and Meditation
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Description: Devotees may observe fasting and engage in meditation during Mahavir Jayanti.
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Activities:
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Fasting: Some followers observe a fast as a form of spiritual discipline.
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Meditation: Time is set aside for meditation and reflection on Lord Mahavir’s teachings.
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6. Community Gatherings and Discussions
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Description: Community events provide a platform for discussion and learning.
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Activities:
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Seminars and Discussions: Educational sessions on Jain philosophy and ethics are held.
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Cultural Programs: Performances, such as plays or skits, that depict the life and teachings of Lord Mahavir are organized.
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7. Special Decorations
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Description: Temples and homes are decorated for the occasion.
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Activities:
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Flowers and Lights: Temples and homes are adorned with flowers, rangoli (colored patterns on the floor), and lights.
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Banners and Posters: Images and quotes from Lord Mahavir’s life are displayed.
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8. Public Events and Exhibitions
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Description: Public events help spread awareness about Jainism.
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Activities:
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Exhibitions: Exhibitions showcasing Jain art, history, and philosophy are organized.
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Workshops: Workshops on Jain practices, ethics, and lifestyle are conducted.
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Regional Variations
While the above practices are common, the specifics of Mahavir Jayanti celebrations can vary by region:- In India: Major cities and towns with significant Jain populations will have large-scale celebrations, including processions and public events.
- Outside India: Jain communities around the world also celebrate Mahavir Jayanti, often with a focus on prayer services, charity, and educational activities.