Who is Mahavir? Why is Mahavir Jayanti celebrated?

On Mahavir Jayanti 2018, let's take a look at why the festival is celebrated.

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Who is Mahavir? Why is Mahavir Jayanti celebrated?
Picture courtesy: Pinterest

Mahavir Janma Kalyanak or Mahavir Jayanti is the most auspicious holiday for Jains, which is celebrated with much enthusiasm within the community.

On this day, various sects of Jains including Digambars, Shwetambars, Sthanak Vaasis and Tera Panthis come together to celebrate the occasion.

But if you're wondering who Mahavir is and why we celebrate his birthday, here's what you should know about the festival:

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Who is Mahavir?

Lord Mahavir was born in 599 BC, at Kshatriyakund, Bihar, on the 13th day of the bright half of the moon, in the month of Chaitra. He was the 24th and the last Tirthankar (teaching god who preaches dharma).

Born to King Siddartha and queen Trisala, Mahavir was named Vardhaman by his parents, and lived his early life like a prince.

Also Read: 6 things you must know about Mahashivratri

In his early years, Vardhaman developed a deep interest in the core beliefs of Jainism and started meditating. At the age of 30, he renounced the throne and his family to seek spiritual truth. He spent 12 years as a monk.

Why is Mahavir Jayanti celebrated?

Mahavir led an extremely ascetic life and practiced meditation and severe penance. His courage and commendable actions earned him the name Mahavir.

Picture courtesy: Pinterest

Lord Mahavir devoted the rest of his life to preaching the truth of spiritual freedom. He taught his followers the practice of non-violence and introduced them to the concept of salvation.

Thus, Mahavir Jayanti is celebrated every year to commemorate his preaching and Jain philosophy.

How is the festival celebrated?

On Mahavir Jayanti, Jain followers offer prayers and respect by visiting temples that are lavishly decorated with flowers and flags. Idols of Mahavir are given a ceremonial anointment called abhisheka.

The idols are carried out on a chariot by devotees, in a procession that is called rath yatra. Religious rhymes are recited on the way.

On this day, members of the Jain community also engage in works of charity.