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| Mahavir Jayanti |
Mahavir Jayanti
Introduction :
Mahavir Jayanti, an important Jain festival, commemorates the birth anniversary of Lord Mahavir, the 24th and last Tirthankara of Jainism. Celebrated with great devotion and enthusiasm by millions of Jains worldwide, Mahavir Jayanti holds significant cultural and religious importance. In this article, we will delve into the reasons behind the celebration of Mahavir Jayanti, explore its status as a gazetted holiday, and clarify its date.
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Why is Mahavir Jayanti celebrated? :
Mahavir Jayanti is celebrated to honor the life and teachings of Lord Mahavir, who is revered as the founder of Jainism. Lord Mahavir was born in the 6th century BCE in Kundagrama (present-day Bihar, India) into a royal family. At the age of 30, he renounced his luxurious life to pursue spiritual enlightenment and devoted himself to intense meditation, austerities, and self-discipline. Mahavir Jayanti is celebrated in various ways in different parts of India and the world. The celebrations usually begin with early morning prayers at Jain temples. Devotees take part in rituals and ceremonies to honor Lord Mahavir.
Lord Mahavir's teachings emphasize the principles of non-violence (ahimsa), truthfulness (satya), non-stealing (asteya), celibacy (brahmacharya), and non-possession (aparigraha). He promoted self-realization and the development of compassion for all living things as ways to free the soul from the cycle of birth and death. During this festival, Jains also practice fasting and meditation, as it is believed that it helps in purifying one's body and soul.
Mahavir Jayanti provides an opportunity for Jains to reflect upon Lord Mahavir's noble teachings and strive to incorporate them into their daily lives. It acts as a prompt to walk the path of justice, simplicity, and nonviolence, fostering world peace and harmony in the process.
Is Mahavir Jayanti a gazetted holiday? :
Yes, Mahavir Jayanti is observed as a gazetted holiday in several states and Union Territories in India. The exact status of Mahavir Jayanti as a gazetted holiday may vary depending on the region and local government regulations. In general, it is widely recognized as an important religious holiday, and schools, offices, and businesses remain closed on this day to honor Lord Mahavir's birth.
Is Mahavir Jayanti on 14th April? :
While Mahavir Jayanti is an annual celebration, its exact date may vary. According to the Gregorian calendar, Mahavir Jayanti usually falls in the months of March or April. However, it is important to note that Lord Mahavir's birth date is traditionally celebrated on the 13th day of the bright half of the Indian lunar month of Chaitra.
Therefore, Mahavir Jayanti does not have a fixed date in the Gregorian calendar and can fall on different dates each year. It is determined by the Hindu lunisolar calendar, which follows the movements of the moon and the sun. Devotees mark this auspicious day by participating in religious processions, visiting Jain temples, offering prayers, and engaging in charitable activities.
Conclusion :
Mahavir Jayanti is a joyous occasion that allows Jains and individuals from various communities to pay tribute to the life and teachings of Lord Mahavir. Through this celebration, people are inspired to cultivate virtues such as non-violence, truthfulness, and compassion in their lives. Whether it is a gazetted holiday or the specific date it falls on, Mahavir Jayanti remains a cherished festival that promotes spiritual growth and the pursuit of inner peace. Mahavir Jayanti is a significant festival that celebrates the teachings and philosophy of Lord Mahavir. Its celebration is a testimony of the faith, devotion, and reverence of the Jain community towards their revered Tirthankara.
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