The Jain community in India observes Mahavir Jayanti, a significant holiday, to remember the birth anniversary of Lord Mahavir, the last and twenty-fourth Tirthankara (spiritual teacher) of Jainism. Jains all around the world commemorate the event with tremendous fervour and devotion, usually in the months of March or April.
In the year 599 BC, Lord Mahavir was born into the Vaishali royal family in what is now the Indian state of Bihar. At the age of 30, he gave up his lavish lifestyle and turned into an ascetic to pursue spiritual enlightenment. He underwent 12 years of arduous penance before attaining enlightenment and becoming a Tirthankara. He advocated for the fundamental Jain ideals of non-violence, truth, non-attachment, and self-control.
Jains visit Jain temples and worship Lord Mahavir on the day of Mahavir Jayanti. The Lord Mahavir idol is ceremonially bathed, and prayers, flowers, and sweets are offered to the deity by worshippers. The idol of Lord Mahavir is transported during processions that the Jains also conduct, during which worshippers chant hymns and recite prayers while pulling a painted palanquin or chariot. The atmosphere is joyful and devotional as the processions are accompanied by music, dance, and other cultural events.
During Mahavir Jayanti, Jains also observe a day-long fast and engage in deeds of kindness, forgiveness, and charity. In addition to organising blood donation camps and medical check-up camps, they provide food and clothing to the underprivileged and needy. Many Jains also engage in deep meditation and introspection on this auspicious day to achieve spiritual enlightenment and attain moksha (liberation).
In conclusion, Mahavir Jayanti is a significant festival for the Jain community, which celebrates the life and teachings of Lord Mahavir. The festival emphasizes the importance of non-violence, truth, and spiritual enlightenment, and reminds people of the need to practice compassion, charity, and kindness towards all living beings. It is a time of great joy, devotion, and celebration for Jains all over the world.
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