Mahavir Jayanti 2025: History, Significance, and Celebration of the Jain Festival

Mahavir Jayanti is one of the most significant festivals in Jainism, commemorating the birth of Lord Mahavir, the 24th and last Tirthankara. In 2025, the festival will be celebrated on April 10 (Thursday), marking the 2623rd birth anniversary of Lord Mahavir. Observed with great devotion, this occasion reflects the core values of Jain philosophy—Ahimsa (non-violence), Satya (truth), Asteya (non-stealing), Brahmacharya (celibacy), and Aparigraha (non-attachment). It is a day of prayer, reflection, charity, and celebration for Jain communities in India and across the world.

Details

Date and Calendar

• Mahavir Jayanti 2025 Date: April 10, 2025 (Thursday)
• Tithi: Trayodashi Tithi of Shukla Paksha in Chaitra month
• Tithi Timing: Starts April 9 at 10:55 PM and ends April 11 at 01:00 AM (as per Drik Panchang)

Historical Background

• Lord Mahavir was born in 599 BC in Kundalagrama, modern-day Vaishali district of Bihar.
• Birth name: Vardhamana.
• Parents: Queen Trishala and King Siddhartha.
• He ruled his kingdom until the age of 30 and then renounced worldly life in search of truth.
• After 12 years of penance, he attained Kevala Jnana (supreme knowledge).
• He preached spiritual liberation and founded the Jain religion as we know it.
• Lord Mahavir attained Moksha (liberation) at age 72 in 527 BC.

Significance of Mahavir Jayanti

• Celebrates the birth and teachings of Lord Mahavir.
• Promotes Jain values like non-violence, truth, and minimalism.
• Encourages reflection on detachment from material life.
• Seen as a time for spiritual cleansing and community service.

How It’s Celebrated

• Temple visits and offering of prayers and rituals.
• Reading of Jain Agamas (holy texts).
• Charitable activities like feeding the poor and helping the needy.
• Grand Rath Yatras (chariot processions) with idols of Lord Mahavir.
• Devotees sing hymns and meditate on his teachings.
• Celebrated across India, and by Jain communities in Nepal, UK, and the USA.

Additional Cultural Beliefs

• According to the Swetambar Jain sect, Mahavir’s mother saw 14 prophetic dreams before his birth, foretelling his greatness.
• He was believed to become either a great king or a spiritual leader (Tirthankara).
• His name “Mahavira” means “Great Hero”, symbolizing his control over senses and worldly pleasures.