Mahavir Jayanti is an important festival celebrated by Jains all over the world. It is the birth anniversary of Lord Mahavir, the 24th Tirthankara of Jainism. The festival falls on the 14th day of the Hindu month of Chaitra and is celebrated with great enthusiasm and reverence.In 2023, Mahavir Jayanti will be celebrated on April 4th. The day is significant for Jains as it marks the birth of Lord Mahavir, who is believed to have established the principles of Jainism. On this day, Jains all over the world offer prayers, perform puja rituals, and engage in acts of charity and kindness.
History and Significance of Mahavir Jayanti:
Lord Mahavir was born as Vardhamana in 599 BCE in present-day Bihar, India. He was born into a royal family and lived a life of luxury until he decided to renounce worldly pleasures and embrace a life of spiritual pursuit. After years of meditation and penance, Lord Mahavir achieved enlightenment and became the 24th Tirthankara of Jainism.
Mahavir Jayanti is celebrated to commemorate the birth of Lord Mahavir and to honor his teachings. Lord Mahavir preached the principles of non-violence, truth, and compassion, and his teachings continue to inspire millions of Jains around the world.
Celebrations of Mahavir Jayanti:
On the day of Mahavir Jayanti, Jains wake up early in the morning and take a bath before performing puja rituals. Devotees visit Jain temples and offer prayers to Lord Mahavir, seeking his blessings. Many Jains also observe a day-long fast and engage in acts of charity and kindness.
In many parts of India, especially in the state of Rajasthan, processions are taken out on the day of Mahavir Jayanti. Devotees dress up in traditional attire and carry out a procession with a chariot carrying the idol of Lord Mahavir. The procession is accompanied by music and dance, and people distribute sweets and prasad.
In conclusion, Mahavir Jayanti is an important festival for Jains all over the world. The day celebrates the birth of Lord Mahavir and honors his teachings of non-violence, truth, and compassion. Jains all over the world celebrate this day with great enthusiasm and reverence, offering prayers, performing puja rituals, and engaging in acts of charity and kindness.
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